Look what I just got in the mail–my membership card for the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America.
Gorgeous, isn’t it? There are two different styles, the other style (equally awesome) has more of a fantasy theme, but I am so glad that Cat Rambo (SFWA president and all-around nice person) chose to send me this Science Fiction image, which is my favorite of the two.
Although I joined the group of 1900 professional authors, artists, and allied professionals last year, these membership cards are new. Joining SFWA is a rite of passage most speculative fiction writers aspire to reach, and it’s not an easy thing to accomplish. Full membership requires a minimum number of paid sales (at pro rates) in professional/vetted publications. For me, membership is one of the first affirmations to myself and the writing community at large that I am, indeed, a ‘real’ writer.
The membership card is a tangible reminder of that.
About SFWA
“SFWA is an organization for published authors and industry professionals in the fields of science fiction, fantasy, and related genres. Founded in 1965, SFWA informs, supports, promotes, defends, and advocates for its members. We host the prestigious Nebula Awards at our annual SFWA Nebula Conference, assist members in legal disputes with publishers, offer the Speakers Bureau, administer grants to SFF community organizations and members facing medical or legal expenses.
Novice authors benefit from our Information Center and well-known Writer Beware site. Between online discussion boards, private convention suites, and a host of less formal gatherings, SFWA is a source of information, education, support, and fellowship for its members.”
To find out more, visit their website at www.sfwa.org
Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America is now a proper 501(c)(3) charity, and the cards are a reminder of both the benefits and responsibilities of membership. I just sent them a tax-deductible donation to:
SFWA
P. O. Box 3238
Enfield, CT 06083
I’ve marked my check “where the need is greatest”.
It feels good.
