Call-out - Research by and for community

Submit now to The SHIFT Journal this special edition "Research by and for community" 

In the words of SHIFT Research & Advocacy program fellow Elena Tresierra-Farbridge, "the purpose of [research] is not to beef up a CV or to have another paper in the world, it's to benefit the world and those who live in it."

Whether behind a digital paywall or a tuition-based on, research that is necessary for societal well-being can tend to lack both accessibility and real-world impact. We ask for submissions that explore the following questions (and beyond):

• What community-forward research looks like or could look like without institutional barriers? 
• What works in current academic research processes and what doesn't?
• What makes good research that serves a community? 
• Would would it mean to have learning environments that better reward relationship-building, curiosity, co-inquiry, and shared power?

Deadline to submit: August 14th 2026

Submission Guidelines: 

In this special edition of the SHIFT Journal, we’re inviting pieces in all written formats (fiction, non-fiction, editorial, opinion). Pieces must be focused either on the experience of journalism and/or content creation in specifically Montreal or Quebec, or the sector more broadly.  

• 500-1250 words 
• French or English 
• Writer must be based in Montreal, and particularly prioritize pieces about Montreal and/or Quebec
• We provide some priority to Concordia students, faculty, staff, and alumni 
• We are open to receiving original or pre-published works
• Each accepted publication will receive an honorarium of $75