NSDA Districts are only open to those schools who have joined the National Speech and Debate Association. This is separate from the NJSDL. For information on how to join the NSDA, please visit https://www.speechanddebate.org/signup/
The New Jersey Speech & Debate League (NJSDL) is proud to announce the launch of our first-ever Anthology, Our Story, Our Voice—a published collection of original short stories, poetry, and short plays written by the members of our own community. This anthology aims to uplift powerful, diverse perspectives while supporting the future of speech and debate in New Jersey.
Purpose of the Anthology
This project serves two important goals:
Amplifying Underrepresented Voices: We hope to expand the range of literature available to students competing in interpretation events by elevating stories from marginalized and historically underrepresented communities. Your voice matters—and we want it in print.
Supporting the NJSDL: Proceeds from the anthology will serve as a fundraiser to help sustain and grow opportunities for student competitors, coaches, and programs across the state.
Who May Submit
We invite submissions from:
Current NJSDL students
Alumni
Coaches (priority will be given to current competitors and alumni)
What We’re Looking For
We are accepting original works in the following categories:
Short Stories ( 1,500-3,000 words)
Poetry (up to 250 words per poem, a maximum of 3 poems per submitter)
Short Plays / Dramatic Scenes (2,500 – 7,500 words not including a synopsis and character descriptions)
Works may explore any theme, but we especially encourage submissions that:
Highlight marginalized perspectives
Celebrate cultural identity
Explore social issues
Bring fresh, bold voices to literature and performance
Stories and poems written in the first person
Submission Guidelines
All submissions must be original, unpublished work.
Writers may submit up to 3 pieces total, one per category.
Submissions must be appropriate for performance by middle and high school students.
Please format as a PDF or Word document.
Include your name, school or affiliation, contact information, and a brief (2–3 sentence) author bio.
Submission Deadline
Submissions will be open until Friday, February 27th.
Selection & Publication
A review panel consisting of NJSDL coaches and board members will select works for inclusion. Selected authors will be notified via email. All authors whose work is published will receive recognition in the anthology.
Join Us in Creating Something Lasting
This anthology is more than a book—it is a platform for voices that deserve to be heard and a resource that will empower future competitors for years to come.
Congratulations to all the students and schools who entered our April virtual tournament. Special thanks to Mr. Yablon from Hudson Arts & Science Charter School for coordinating our virtual series this year!
