This project is the brainchild of Jane Block, with Connie Ransom, and a growing supporting cast that includes Christine Gailey, Paulette Brown-Hinds, Nicolette Rohr, Deborah Wong, Cathy Gudis, and Cati Porter. Here's the story:

Our aim is to provide a set of working tools for the next generation of community grassroots activists, with a particular focus on women and those who are women-identifying. We are taking a very broad view of 'activism'. We are also dedicated to inclusivity,  so we are especially keen to interview women activists from underrepresented and under-resourced communities.

We're contemplating several formats for the project, which will feature not just a biography of each woman, but also a bulletpoint list of the projects or policies that they were successful in changing/implementing/creating/advocating for, everything from PTAs or individuals who went up against school boards to make change, to working with local governmental agencies to preserve species or historic structures or swaths of open space, to workers' rights, and so on. There is room at this table for all kinds of activism and advocacy.

At some point, there will be a book. Maybe. For sure, a website. But right now we are in the gathering phase. We need your help so that no one is left out. It will be a big pool. Maybe not everyone will make it into the book, if there is a big overlap, but we aim for full representation. Where there is a community, women are always there, making change -- sometimes quietly, sometimes by sheer will and force. Tell us who we need to include, and why. And if you'd like to be part of the ongoing project and have skills to offer, check the box below and we'll keep in touch.

A final word: We don't mind duplication, so don't worry if you think maybe someone has already nominated your nominee. Different perspectives may illuminate different facets of their work. And you don't have to fill out every question if you don't have an answer. Think of them as directional signs, pointing us toward these women's stories.