Call for Entries: The Debra E. Bernhardt Labor Journalism Prize

The New York Labor History Association’s Bernhardt Prize awards $1,000 to an article that exemplifies great writing for a general audience and furthers the understanding of the history of working people. The prize and the forum honor the vision of the late Debra E. Bernhardt, who worked in so many different realms to share the hidden histories of working people. The contest has moved from an annual to a bi-annual schedule, and the next deadline will be in early September 2026.

We welcome articles that put current issues like work, housing, organizing, health, or education in a historical context AND also articles about historical events. The work must be published in print or online between September 1, 2024 and August 31, 2026. The prize is given to insightful work that contributes to the understanding of labor history; shows creativity; demonstrates excellence in writing; can reach a broad audience; and adheres to the highest journalistic standards of accuracy. Read more here.