Seasons of Change
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS
July 15th
2023
“The secret of change is to focus all of your
energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” Socrates
We live in a fast-paced yet chaotic world. In some respects, it is almost unrecognizable from
the world in which many of us grew to maturity. Technological change, political instability,
and financial crisis have, separately and together, provided the stimuli for change. Alongside that
are the changing expectations surrounding both gender and sexuality. These all impact us,
not just on a theoretical level, but on a very real, personal one. They pose a challenge
to the way we think, move, and live - as well as offering us exciting possibilities.
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Seasons of Change welcomes poems and stories that reflect on the experience of Change on
all levels. The following suggestions are designed to help you with your thinking. They
are neither obligatory nor exclusive.
Questions of Identity
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The right of all people to access education, irrespective of gender, status, or wealth.
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The Social Justice Movement: including campaigns for Racial Justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
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The aging population: healthcare needs and workforce changes.
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Human Rights; protection for women, children, and those seeking sanctuary.
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Political
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Conflicts: eg. Russia/Ukraine, Afghanistan, Israel/Palestine.
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Economic inequality: growing disparities and policy debates on how to address them.
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Cyber-security: ongoing threats at a personal and national level.
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The Demise of Democracy: global decline in democratic values, and growth of authoritarianism.
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Ecological
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Biodiversity Loss: continuing depletion of animal and plant species.
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Climate change: impact of flooding, droughts, and wildfires on communities.
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The transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy.
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Impact of technology and Artificial Intelligence in our homes and our lives.
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Health
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Mental health: increased awareness of the issues and improvements in care.
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Global medical crises: emerging diseases and the ongoing effects of Covid-19 pandemic.
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Homelessness and poor housing are increasing, impacting health and well-being.
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Medical breakthrough: development of vaccines and in-hospital treatments.
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“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Harriet Tubman
