It appears I have accidentally ruffled some feathers (to put it mildly) with the announcement about the women in fantasy issue. In particular, I’m referring to how the use of “girls” and “ladies” has bothered some people. I received a call last night from a very wise female friend. She broke it down for me. When I told her I was being tongue-in-cheek when I wrote “girls” and that’s why I put it in quotes, she made me understand this is still unacceptable. All right, won’t happen again.
As to “ladies,” I learned something. Apparently, it’s fine to use the phrase “ladies and gentlemen,” but “ladies” by itself doesn’t sit right with some people, even if I used the word “gents” earlier in the same post. All right, now I know. Call it innocence/ignorance/naivete on my part (please take your pick). It certainly wasn’t done with malice or the belief that men are somehow superior to women. So if I’ve offended anyone with my use of these words, you have my sincerest apologies. I am very sorry. Mea culpa. Mea maxima culpa. All one can do is learn from one’s mistakes. I will do that.
There have been a number of questions about the women in fantasy issue. I’m going to post an updated version of the submission announcement the first chance I get.
Thanks.
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I, as a lady, do not find it offensive to be called one, and feel that anyone who does is putting their insecurities out there for anyone to step on (and they will get stepped on).
Zanna, but enough (I don’t how many or what %, but enough) women were offended by my usage that I felt compelled to apologize. It’s not a big deal for me to avoid using this word. Now that I know, I’m more than happy to accommodate. If you personally (and other women) weren’t offended by what I said, fantastic. But I need to be respectful to those who were.