style guide
We are always looking for talented Women of Colour, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to contribute to SPEAK. If you are interested in working with us, here are some general writing tips to ensure that your piece resonates with our audience:
- Write in a conversational tone. If possible, avoid legalese, jargon or slang (unless you explain what it is) and make sure that all acronyms are spelled out in the first instance.
- Speak directly to your reader in the present tone.
- If you’re writing about historical references, please do your research and ensure it is factually and historically accurate. Always provide reliable references to back any statements.
- Providing a ‘call to action’ is a great way to engage and affect real change by encouraging contact to representatives in parliament, volunteer in their communities etc. if relevant to your piece.
- SPEAK was built as a platform to amplify your voice. Be authentic, be unashamedly you in your writing. Whether it’s a poem, long form, short form, a critique, or sharing a lived experience, we would love to hear from you.
Please send a short pitch or idea to speak@womenofcolour.org.au