Discover the brilliance and complexity's grace of disability and neurodivergence
Our free quarterly digital magazine weaves together research, storytelling, personal perspectives, and creative expression to illuminate the rich realities of disability and neurodivergence. We help build greater understanding and conversations that impact how communities are recognized and valued.
volume 01
Debut Issue
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Make Your Mark
Share your story. Shape the narrative.
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For inquiries or reflections, contact us here.
Volume 1
AUGUST 2025 — DEBUT ISSUE
Our Cause,
Our Community
At Ave Astra, we cultivate a bold and dynamic space where the stories and perspectives of disability and neurodivergence unfold with nuance, depth, and authenticity. Our digital magazine curates a compelling blend of essays, research, artistry, and personal narratives—each offering fresh insights that elevate and transform the conversation.We illuminate the varied experiences within disability and neurodivergent communities, fostering conversations marked by respect, depth, and thoughtful engagement.
What We Do
Publish a Range of Contributions
We showcase personal stories, creative writing, accessible research summaries, and artwork from individuals with lived experience as well as allies deeply engaged in these topics.
Support New Creators
We offer opportunities for people to share their work and develop their skills.
Focus on Accessibility
We are committed to making all our content welcoming and easy to engage with, ensuring accessibility for all readers.
Connect People
Our magazine and events catalyze connections, bridging stories, experiences, and people.
Stay Connected
Receive stories and updates.
Make Your Mark
Share your story. Shape the narrative.
Connect with Us
For inquiries or reflections, contact us here.
Contribute to the Dialogue
We invite contributions that challenge established narratives and bring forward perspectives that deepen and complicate our understanding of disability and neurodivergence. Through essays, personal reflections, poetry, visual art, and research, your unique perspective becomes a vital force in driving precise and thoughtful dialogue.By sharing your work, you actively shape conversations grounded in rigor, depth, and authenticity. Together, we build a platform that respects the complexity of disability and neurodivergent experiences, ensuring every contribution sharpens the collective discourse.
Types of
Submissions
Articles & Essays
Personal reflections, opinion pieces, research summaries, interviews, or cultural commentary (typically 800–1,500 words).
Creative Writing
Stories, poems, or other literary works that engage with meaningful themes, evoke emotion, and offer fresh perspectives.
Art & Photography
Original artwork, sculptures, illustrations, or photography that explore compelling themes, emotions, and perspectives through creative expression.
Other Media
Multimedia projects, audio, or video pieces may be considered—please contact us prior to submission.
Submission Guidelines
Ownership and Publication
We accept original work created by you. Submissions previously published elsewhere are welcome, provided you have the rights to share them on our platform. Please verify any restrictions from prior publishers or platforms before submitting.
Format Requirements
— Text submissions: Word document (.doc/.docx) or Google Doc preferred.
— Images: High-resolution JPEG or PNG files. Please include captions or descriptive text to ensure accessibility.
— Accessibility: We encourage clear, straightforward language and recommend avoiding jargon to make your work accessible to a broad audience.
Respectful Content
We seek thoughtful, respectful contributions that foster understanding and inclusivity. Content promoting harm, discrimination, or exclusion will not be accepted.
Permissions
If your submission includes work by others, please ensure you have the appropriate rights and permissions to share it.
What Happens Next
We will confirm receipt of your submission via email.
Our editorial team carefully reviews each submission, typically within 4 to 6 weeks. This ensures thoughtful consideration aligned with our mission and standards.
If needed, we may reach out with suggestions or requests for revisions to help your work shine.
You will be informed whether your submission has been accepted or declined.
Accepted works are scheduled for publication and shared with our engaged community
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I submit anonymously?
We prefer to credit contributors to honor their contributions, but we are open to discussing anonymous publication in special cases. Please indicate your preference in your submission.
Is there payment for contributions?
Currently, contributions are unpaid. However, we deeply value your support and participation in helping us build a meaningful, inclusive dialogue.
Will my work be edited?
Our editors may suggest revisions to enhance clarity, accessibility, but we respect your style and intent throughout the process.
Do I retain rights to my work?
Yes. You retain ownership of your work. By submitting, you grant us permission to publish it on our platform.
Can I submit previously published work?
Yes. You may submit work previously published on other platforms as long as you have the right to share it here. If you’re unsure, please let us know in your submission. We also welcome suggestions for work published elsewhere that you think our readers should see—just indicate this in the submission form.
What formats do you accept?
We prefer text submissions as Word documents or Google Docs. For images, please provide high-resolution JPEG or PNG files with captions or descriptions for accessibility.
Can I submit collaborative work?
Yes. Please ensure all collaborators agree to the submission and indicate their involvement.
Ready to Make Your Mark?
We’re excited to receive your work year-round.
The Beautiful Incomplete Flowering and Blossoming Life
By Huá Huī SamuelVogel
Connect with Us
We welcome your questions, reflections, and conversations. Whether you’re seeking more information, have feedback, or want to explore collaboration opportunities, we’re here to listen and engage.
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