October 27, 2004
Dear ASBH members:
We are pleased to introduce the Women's Bioethics Project (WBP) to the bioethics and medical humanities community at the ASBH 2004 Annual Meeting.
WBP is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan, public-policy think tank based in Seattle. Our mission is to promote the thoughtful application of biotechnology to improve women's lives. WBP seeks to protect vulnerable populations by anticipating unintended consequences, safeguarding women's bodies from harm, and ensuring that women's life priorities are recognized.
Women bring a vital perspective to all issues that affect society, and it is critical for that perspective to be included in all bioethics-related public policy and debate. By analyzing issues from a gender perspective, we believe we are able to construct a more inclusive understanding of bioethical issues. This understanding will lead to more informed public debate and better policy to help create the type of world we all want to live in.
We recognize and applaud the work of prominent scholars such as Suzanne Holland, Hilde Lindemann, Rosemarie Tong, Susan Wolf, Laurie Zoloth, and countless others who have been writing, talking, and teaching inclusive bioethical analysis for decades. WBP believes the time has come for this type of scholarship to reach a broader audience that includes policy makers, the general media, and advocacy groups interested in these issues. To accomplish this goal, we have gathered a talented group of professionals from the technology sector, finance, law, medicine, academia, and science. In addition, our staff includes experts in media relations, public outreach, and political advocacy.
One of our next steps is to introduce a series of strategic initiatives. The details are too numerous to name here, but they include peer-reviewed, online publishing opportunities on our website; a speakers' bureau for lectures and media appearances; communications and editorial support to assist scholars in adapting their work for lay audiences; and assistance with media relations. To implement these initiatives we need to partner with scholars in the bioethics community.
We are actively recruiting scholars, both men and women, who share our vision and are interested in having their work make a real impact. To be considered for the WBP Scholar Promotion Program, please send a one-page letter describing your background and how your research interests support WBP's mission. Letters should be sent to the address below and be postmarked by December 1, 2004.
I am available to answer your questions during the conference at the WBP booth in the exhibit hall, or you can reach me at (206) 200-1101. I also invite you to pick up a copy of our strategic framework and a reprint of a recent Seattle Times article on WBP at the booth, and visit our website at www.womensbioethics.org.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Hinsch
Founder