As women deeply invested in this sector — as authors, freelancers, designers, illustrators, event organisers, booksellers, editors, publishers and employees — we stand to be disproportionately affected by the cuts and economic pressures that are currently threatening our industry.

The public funding we receive has already been reduced by 30% since 2010, and inflation and rising production costs have only worsened the impact. With the budget on hold, its value has depreciated, and last year we faced an additional 10.5% cut. We now fear another reduction, which could lead to fewer books and fewer publishers. Without publishers, there could be no books at all from Wales, in the future. 

What does this mean for us as women in publishing? 

It means a direct and devastating impact on our livelihoods, our creative voices and our cultural heritage. Women working in publishing are already stretched thin in terms of time and resources, often juggling multiple roles to keep the industry alive. A large proportion of Welsh authors, publishers, employees and freelances in both languages are women — a testament to the central role women play in this industry. But with fewer resources, fewer opportunities, and the looming existential risk to our sector and creative freedoms, women in publishing will face even greater challenges. 

The cuts are not just numbers on a page — they represent real-life consequences for the many women who have dedicated their careers to writing, producing and promoting books in Wales.

As employees, freelancers, authors and small business owners, many of us already work in fragile conditions, working long hours for disproportionate wages, often subject to self-exploitation. Publishing in a minority language like Welsh, and books about Wales from a Welsh perspective, which has long faced cultural and economic challenges, makes this work all the more vital. We cannot afford to lose our Welsh voice in both languages in publishing.  

The knock-on effects of these cuts ripple through every part of our community: 

For women authors and readers — there will be fewer opportunities to publish our stories and share our perspectives. This diminishes the richness of our cultural landscape, with fewer Welsh voices in both languages being heard. A strong Welsh publishing industry is essential for producing books in English about Wales. We cannot rely on London to represent our stories and perspectives. Readers in Wales deserve to read about themselves from a Welsh viewpoint. 

For freelancers and small businesses — the loss of contracts, royalties and projects puts jobs and livelihoods at risk. These businesses are not easily replaced once lost, the expertise they bring to our sector can take years to rebuild — if at all! 

For women who are mothers, carers and educators — the impact of fewer books in Welsh and English will be profound. Studies show that children who grow up with books in the home are 60% more likely to develop strong literacy skills compared to those exposed primarily to screens. Reading for pleasure — whether in Welsh or English — is critical for developing inquisitive, imaginative, and confident young minds. But with fewer books for children and young people being produced, the next generation will be at an even greater disadvantage, with potential long-term effects on literacy levels and educational outcomes. 

The stakes are even higher for those from low-income families, many of whom rely on libraries and affordable books to gain access to reading material. Austerity measures have already led to the closure of public libraries in Wales, making it harder to access books. School libraries have also been closed.

The cuts to publishing will only exacerbate this problem, with fewer books being produced, less variety, and fewer stories that reflect the experiences of Welsh people and their communities.

Our sector is integral to women and women are integral to our sector, but without urgent intervention, we face an existential crisis. These cuts aren’t just about avoiding further damage; they are about restoring the grants and resources we desperately need to survive and thrive. Without a meaningful reversal of these cuts, the Welsh publishing industry will struggle to exist in its current form, jeopardizing the very future of Welsh books, literacy initiatives and creative opportunities. 

What can we do? 

Write to your local Senedd representatives as well as the Culture Committee. Your local constituency Senedd members are important, they need to know the general arguments about the importance of our sector, but also the specific, far-reaching impacts these cuts will have on women — whether as employees, freelancers, authors, or small business owners. Remind them that the loss of this industry would be a loss for Welsh culture and your livelihood.

Rally your communities. Whether you are part of a book club, a society, or another community group, encourage them to join the campaign. Every letter, every voice adds pressure for change.

Spread the word. Use your platforms to raise awareness about this issue, reach out to your media contacts. Women in publishing must stand together now more than ever. 

Why this matters.

Welsh publishing has always been more than just an industry — it’s a lifeline for cultural preservation, representation, education, and literacy. The value of reading, especially for children, cannot be understated. As women, we understand the importance of nurturing inquisitive minds, sparking imaginations, and providing solace through stories. But without the resources to create and publish these stories, we face an uncertain future where our voices are silenced.

We must act now to protect our sector, not just to avoid further cuts but to demand the restoration of the grants that have fallen in value since 2010.

This is a fight for our cultural identity, for the future of Welsh publishing in both languages, and for the women who make up the backbone of this industry. 

Please take action. 

Write to your Senedd members, rally your networks, reach out to your contacts in the media and stand with us as we demand the support that Welsh publishing and women deserve. 

Email templates, talking points and government policies available courtesy of Cyhoeddi Cymru - Publishing Wales. Please contact press@womenpublishingwales.com 

If you haven't already, join Women Publishing Wales today: https://www.womenpublishingwales.com/membership

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On 21st January 2017, a mighty wave of solidarity swept across the globe as women from diverse backgrounds, cultures and communities joined hands in the worldwide sister marches attracting 2.6 million people. A historic moment, these marches stood as a collective assertion of human rights, a resounding response to misogyny and a vibrant celebration of women's empowerment. 

In Cardiff, the Sister March was a remarkable demonstration of unity, community and inclusivity drawing together an estimated 2,000 men, women, and children from diverse backgrounds. This inclusive event saw the collaboration of various women's groups and voices across Wales, including prominent organisations such as WEN Wales, Abortion Rights UK, Pride Cymru, Welsh Women's Aid, Hope Not Hate, BAWSO The Cardiff People's Assembly and Côr Cochion. as well as prominent members of the Welsh language, feminist, left-wing, Muslim and LGBTQIA+ communities, these grass-roots groups came together under the banner of the Cardiff Sisters of Solidarity, showcasing a powerful commitment to intersectionality. 

Unity Across Borders

From bustling cities to remote villages, the resonance of the sister marches echoed globally. Women, along with their allies, took to the streets in a display of unity that transcended geographical boundaries. The marches were a testament to the shared understanding that the fight for gender equality is a universal cause. In the face of rising misogyny, sexism and inequality, the sister marches provided a platform for women to voice their concerns and demand respect and equality. It was a call to action, a refusal to be silenced and a collective stand against discrimination. The sea of impassioned individuals carried signs and chanted slogans, turning  into avenues of emancipation.  

Amplifying Voices & Celebrating Diversity

These marches weren't just a one-day event; they symbolised the amplification of women's voices globally. Social media played a crucial role in connecting the marches, allowing stories and images to be shared instantaneously. The hashtag #SisterMarch trended worldwide, creating a digital space where the voices of millions were heard and acknowledged. What made the sister marches particularly poignant was the celebration of diversity. People from all walks of life, representing various ages, genders, ethnicities, religions, cultures, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds, stood together. This inclusivity became a hallmark of the movement, highlighting that the fight for women's rights is interconnected.

A Lasting Legacy 

As we stand on the cusp of the eighth anniversary since the sister marches of January 2017, the looming prospect of Trump's potential re-election has thrust women's rights back into the spotlight. By reflecting on those historic marches, we pay homage to the resilience and unwavering determination of women who remind us that the fight for equality transcends borders and endures across time. The echoes of our voices, once again amplified by the imminent threat of socio-economic and political challenges, persist as a timeless inspiration for current and future generations to rise, speak out and continue the march towards a brighter and more equitable tomorrow.

As we remember the global sister marches of January 2017, we acknowledge their lasting legacy as the spirit of unity continues to contribute to movements worldwide. The marches were not just a moment in history; they marked the beginning of an ongoing journey towards a more equitable and inclusive world for all. 

In the face of years of austerity, divisive rhetoric, popularised politics as well well as ongoing financial constraints, women in Wales have always advocated for change and championed the strength found in solidarity.   

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