I Wish I Had Known Submission Guidelines

Take Back the Halls is a powerful initiative that equips young people to build healthy relationships, prevent teen dating violence, and create lasting change in their schools and communities. When we talk with adults about our work, one reflection comes up again and again: “I wish someone had taught me this when I was a teen.” We know how transformative prevention can be—and how it can shape the course of someone’s life and future relationships.

This February, in recognition with Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, we are launching the “I Wish I Had Known” awareness and prevention campaign. We are inviting adults to share their reflections on what they wish they had learned about healthy relationships as teens—and how that knowledge might have changed their lives.

All submissions are welcome. We especially encourage contributions from adults who have experienced dating or domestic violence. Selected submissions will be featured on our social media, blog, and newsletter. Multiple formats and mediums are welcome.

Submissions are due January 15, 2026.

Please see the guidelines, submission suggestions, and FAQs below.  When you are ready, you can send us your submission through our secure form. 

How to Submit

Check in with yourself before deciding to share.

Reflecting on or sharing past experiences can be challenging and may bring up strong emotions. We want this to be a positive and empowering experience for anyone who chooses to participate. If you need support for current or past experiences, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Create your “I Wish I Had Known” tagline.

Choose a phrase that captures the theme of your story or reflection. For example:

I Wish I Had Known: the warning signs of abuse

I Wish I Had Known: love shouldn’t hurt

I Wish I Had Known: how to set healthy boundaries

I Wish I Had Known: how to manage my anger in relationships

Any other phrase that you feel captures your story but that follows this model: I Wish I Had Known:

Choose your submission format.

Essay or Blog Post: 1–2 pages

Art: Photo, drawing, painting, or other visual art (submitted in digital format)

Poem: written or spoken recording

Song: lyrics or recorded 

Video: up to 5 minutes

Create your submission.

Submit using our secure form.

FAQs

What are we looking for?

Our theme is “I Wish I Had Known.”We are seeking adults’ reflections on how healthy relationship or teen dating violence education could have helped you when you were younger. This may include your own personal experiences in past relationships (see questions 5 and 6) or a general reflection on what information or guidance you wish you’d had as a teen. You can also learn more about our program’s core components for ideas and inspiration.

What will you do with my submission?

We will share submissions throughout February on our social media, website blog, and/or newsletter.

Will all submissions be used?

We will share as many submissions as possible. If we are unable to share yours and we have your contact information, we will reach out to let you know.

Can I submit anonymously?

Yes. You may submit using your full name, first name, initials, a pseudonym, or remain fully anonymous.

Can I submit my personal story of abuse?

Yes. We welcome submissions that reflect on your personal experiences and how dating violence prevention education might have helped you. We ask that you avoid detailed or graphic descriptions. If you’re looking for a space to share your story in more depth, we encourage you to seek support through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Can I share my story of causing harm?

Yes. We would like to hear from adults who have engaged in unhealthy relationship behaviors or caused harm in the past. We ask that you submit only if you have done work around accountability and your harmful behavior has changed. If you need help changing harmful behaviors, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

What is in it for me?

Sharing personal stories that can help others can be healing and empowering. We are also happy to share your social media pages, projects, or links if you wish.

Does it have to be in English?

No. We welcome submissions in any language. They will be shared in the language in which they are submitted.

What if working on my submission is too hard?

Reflecting on your story may bring up strong emotions. Please take breaks as needed and use your self-care and safety strategies. Come back when you feel ready—or it’s okay to decide you’re not ready.

Some self-care strategies include:

Reaching out to your counselor, advocate, or therapist

Talking with a trusted friend or family member

Doing something grounding (breathing exercises, walking, meditation, muscle relaxation, etc.)

Calling a hotline if you need immediate support:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

Can I get help writing or creating my submission?

Your experiences are powerful, and we are not concerned with perfect grammar or polished writing. We have limited capacity to support your writing or creation process. If you would like help, please reach out to heather@takingbackourlives.org.

What if I have more questions?

Please email Heather Flett at heather@takingbackourlives.org. Questions can be asked in any language.