Seven women writers share what feminism means to them
Writer Catherine Nichols recently illustrated the need for feminism in writing and publishing in her essay ‘Homme De Plume: What I Learned Sending My Novel Out From A Male Name’. After sending out her book to publishers under both her name and a male pseudonym, George, Nichols uncovered yet another example of the discriminatory bias against women during the job application process. According to the manuscript requests Nichols received, ‘George’ is “eight and a half times better at writing the same book”.
In addition to the bias against women seeking employment, female writers published primarily online are frequently subjected to written abuse, often in the form of threats of sexual assault or death.
Many female writers understand the importance of gender equality and respect towards women. Seven of these women writers share their heartfelt, insightful and inspirational responses on what feminism means to them.