Yes, feminism is still an issue. A few years back, I attended a panel discussing a “Must Read Canon” of Science-Fiction. The list the moderator passed out to the attendees did not include a SINGLE woman author. It took several of us feminists to bring up authors and titles for attendees to “pencil in” on said lists. Another panel on social issues in science fiction was made up of all men (albeit the convention has a pretty even split of men and women) who balked at including feminism when my friend and I brought it up.

I’m very happy that you mentioned Broad Universe, also. This is my second year of membership, I’m happy to say. On the BU website, there are several statistics comparing how many women write science-fiction, fantasy and horror with how many are getting published, getting awards, and getting attention. Other things the group has investigated was how many women are getting published and if those women are getting a fair share of advertising and publicity.

While my comment deals more with feminism in the business of writing science-fiction, fantasy and horror, it might also be interesting to compare the industry treatment of women (such as the lack of knowledge for women’s groups and awards in dealing with gender treatment) and the written treatment. How has each progressed and affected each other?

Thank you so much for the post; I was directed here by one of the members of BU, and I look forward to following your blog now! Thanks for the mention of our organization, as well.

Best,

Trish Wooldridge