Women’s Writing Associations: They're Out There

by Jill Earl

In searching for writing organizations geared towards women, I came across a few based in the U.S. and abroad, with interests ranging from playwriting to journalism. Check them below.

International Women’s Writing Guild (IWWG)
Uses writing to empower all women, regardless of their writing expertise. Benefits include the Network Journal, reduced fees for IWWG events, and a literary agent list. They have two major events: "Remember the Magic", a week-long conference at Brown University; and the New York-based "Big Apple Workshop: Meet the Editors", which takes place twice a year over a weekend.

American News Women Club (ANWC)
Expands the advancement of women in the media professions. Members represent newspapers, radio and television, publishing companies, independent authors, online publications, public relations firms, corporations, academic institutions, and government. Members have access to club facilities; professional development workshops and seminars; Shop Talk, the monthly newsletter; the annual "Helen Thomas Award" Benefit Gala; monthly networking events; parties; embassy visits and more.

Association for Women in Communications
Seeks to advance women in print and broadcast journalism, television and radio production, film, advertising, public relations, marketing, graphic design, multi-media design, and photography. Both students and professionals are welcome to join and benefits include a job board; the bimonthly Communiqué newsletter; the annual conference; and chapters.

Black Writers Alliance (accepts both women and men as members)
Supports the growth and development of young, new, emerging, and established writers by providing access to members-only forums; the annual Black Writers Reunion & Conference; contests; workshops and job referral services.

Sisters in Crime (SINC)
SINC offers networking, advice and support to mystery writers. Offers InSinC, the quarterly newsletter; regional chapters; 'The Guppies', a support and critique group for unpublished writers; and the monthly SinC Links—a digest about the mystery business.

Romance Writers of America (RWA)
One of the largest writing organizations in the world, it supports the interests of career-focused romance writers through networking and advocacy. There’s an annual conference; local chapters offering a number of contests and workshops; opportunities for outreach; the Romance Writers Report, and other resources.

Society of Women Writers, Victoria Inc (SWWV)
Based in Australia, it provides women writers with information and support through monthly meetings; the Write Away newsletter; workshops and seminars; conferences; competitions and awards. Also strengthens ties between women writers in Australia and overseas.

The International Centre for Women Playwrights (ICWP)
Run entirely by volunteer playwrights, directors, performers and others, it supports female playwrights from around the world. Offers the Seasons Journal; professional development grants; monthly opportunities through The Official Playwrights of Facebook Group; and other benefits.

I'm sure there's some organizations I've missed. If you happen to know of any others , please share!

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Local Writers’ Associations - A Worthwhile Investment

By Jill Earl

I just received my copy of Pen In Hand, the Maryland Writers Association’s newsletter. I decided to join as one of my birthday presents to myself last year and am glad for the decision. Within that period of time, I've had an article published in our newsletter, served on the meeting committee for our local chapter and participated in a panel discussion on broadcast media. Your local writers’ association can offer numerous opportunities to establish or further your writing career. Finding one in your area can start with your library, local arts council or check out the Internet for more information. Following are a few benefits to joining these organizations.

Joining a writers’ association can provide an abundance of networking opportunities such as social gatherings, meetings, lectures, and other events. Not only can you meet writers in your specialty, but you can also meet those who work in other genres. You'll receive much needed support through peer interaction, and build relationships.

Writers’ associations often have critique groups for members to hone their craft, while getting valuable feedback on works-in-progress. Group members decide on location, length and frequency of meetings, along with the focus of their particular group.

Many writers’ associations sponsor conferences where both members and non-members can attend seminars and workshops featuring local and nationally-known authors covering areas ranging from poetry to writing for children. One-on-one critiques with editors are frequently offered. Publishers appear to give advice on how prepare your submissions and insider views on the publishing process. And networking opportunities abound.

So if there’s one available, consider joining your local writers’ association, and let the benefits help grow you as a writer. It really is a worthwhile investment.

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