Women Writing History: A Coronavirus Journaling Project Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of content can I submit for my journal?
Journaling can take many forms handwritten entries in physical journals, typed entries, drawings, paintings, photography or music, oral or video recordings, just to name a few. Choose a medium that best expresses your creativity.
How do I submit my journal?
When you're ready to submit your journal, please find the submissions portal button (Submit) on the project's landing page on the NWHM website https/ /www.womenshistory.org/iournal proiect.
Simply follow the link above and scroll all the way to the bottom of the page to find the submission steps and black "Submit" button. Please note: Everyone should fill out a submission form via the submissions portal regardless of whether you plan to submit your project digitally or physically via postal mail. Instructions are provided for both options on the form. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
Please carefully read the terms of use before submitting. If you indicated you are under 18 on your participant form, you will be receiving a Parent or Guardian Release Form that must be returned before your submission can be finalized and accepted.
Can I remain anonymous?
Yesl If you'd prefer to remain anonymous, please indicate your preference on the Submission Form that is required of all participants when submitting your journaling project.
Will my journal be returned to me?
No. By agreeing to donate your journal, it is understood that the purpose and intent of the gift is to transfer and assign all rights, title, and interest in the journal that you may possess to the National Women's History Museum. A Deed of Gift will be ensued to you from the Museum. The NWHM and/or the Museum's collaborative project partner, The New York Times Company, may make discretionary use of the donated materials to include, but not limited to, exhibition, display, publication, digitization for preservation and access purposes, and making materials available for research and future scholarship. The NWHM reserves the right to decline any submission deemed inappropriate for the project.
Can I participate if I live outside the United States? Which languages are accepted?
The Museum welcomes participants from all over the world to contribute to the project. Please feel free to journal in whichever language you feel most comfortable. All languages are accepted.
When should I submit my journal?
When you are readyl The submissions portal will remain open through December 31, 2021 and accepts multiple entries. Feel free to journal for as long or as short as you'd like and submit when you are ready.
How will my journal be used?
The journals will be used as a living archive of women's lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as for online and physical exhibits, articles, and interactives. This archive will also hold a special place in the future physical site of the National Women's History Museum. In the meantime, we'll share excerpts, images, videos, and oral recordings from women who choose to share their experiences with us.
What should I write about or create?
We want you to record your daily experiences during the pandemic. While every entry and journal will be unique, consider what you're feeling, what you're experiencing, what your day is like.
How long should each entry be?
That's up to youI There is no word limit for submissions and entries will likely vary in length from day to day.
Do I have to update my journal each day? Is it okay if I miss days here and there? While this project aims to explore the daily life and experiences of women throughout this pandemic, we recognize that for a variety of reasons, not every contributor will be able to dedicate time to daily journaling right now-especially essential workers on the frontlines of this virus. We hope participants will aim for daily journaling, but we will accept all submissions.
Will the project continue after the pandemic ends?
The Museum will continue to collect journal submissions by registration only once the pandemic ends. We realize that endings are just new beginnings, and that capturing living history in the aftermath of the pandemic is invaluable to historians and future generations, as well.