Short Takes are smart, informed essays, exclusive to America magazine, of 800 to 1000 words by experts on matters affecting the church or civil society. Essays should have a clear point of view and be supported by data or professional experience. They may address topics in the news but should still be relevant a few weeks after they are submitted. Most Short Takes are published online only but many are considered for later publication in our print edition. All Short Takes must be thoroughly fact-checked by our editors before publication. Please include a short biographical statement at the end of the submitted essay, and please include your name in the names of any files or photos that you attach. We reply to all submissions; if you have not heard back from us, your submission is still being reviewed. Find examples of Short Takes here: http://www.americamagazine.org/section/short-take.