Women's Fiction Writers Association Inclusion Statement and Code of Conduct 

The Women's Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) is a special community dedicated to giving all writers a safe and inclusive environment in which to learn about, discuss, and obtain support in their writing journey.

We embrace and celebrate the unique experiences, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds that each member brings to our group. We strive to foster an environment where our members feel respected, valued, and empowered.

Therefore, the WFWA has a zero-tolerance policy for prejudice based on, but not limited to, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, religion, marital status, or political affiliation.

We are committed to the following actions in support of an inclusive environment.

  • Providing ongoing education and training to all members on diversity, equity, and inclusion topics.
  • Supporting a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) group with representation at the board level. The DEI group is comprised of members at all levels of the organization.
  • Providing all members a safe avenue to voice concerns regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.

Code of Conduct

All members are also expected to support an inclusive environment by adhering to the following conduct standards:

  • Treat others with dignity and respect at all times.
  • Address and report inappropriate behavior and comments that are discriminatory, harassing, abusive, offensive, or unwelcome.
  • Foster teamwork and member participation, encouraging the representation of different perspectives.
  • Seek out insights from members with different experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds.
  • Avoid slang or idioms that might not translate across cultures.
  • Constructively address the decisions or behaviors of others that are based on conscious or unconscious biases. If you feel uncomfortable doing this, please contact [email protected].
  • Be open-minded and listen when given constructive feedback regarding others’ perception of your conduct.

To this end, the WFWA will not tolerate any behavior or language that violates our policy at any online or in-person gatherings or on any social media platforms associated with the organization.

Violations

  • Any member who belittles another person’s experience, in word or spirit, on social media will receive one warning and their post will be removed from the platform. On the second offense, they will be suspended from the platform for six months. 
  • Any member who belittles another person’s experience, in word or spirit, on an online meeting platform will receive one warning. On the second offense, they will be suspended from the platform for six months. 
  • Any member who continues to demonstrate harmful views toward others will have their membership revoked.

Concerns or suggestions should be directed to the vice president of diversity and inclusion at [email protected] or to the president at [email protected]. or by using the contact form on the about page.

 

Effective February 5, 2024