Dee Cooper and Lisa Smith founded Write into Culture in April 2023 with the intention to support Romani and Traveller women to develop and hone their creative voices and offer a safe space based on the foundations of solidarity and sisterhood. Women with all writing abilities were invited to join the eight week pilot writing group which became oversubscribed.

“One of the other driving forces behind this initiative was our joint frustration at the  under - representation of authentic Romani and Traveller voices within the British film industry. Writers  their stories and perspectives are often mis- represented or excluded.  As a result, a racist narrative continues to dominate mainstream film culture, Write into culture aims to  develop writing talent from within our communities and offer mentorship and support” said Lisa Smith.

“Our truths shared in a safe and happy space. A solidarity. A union between us women, who have grown up with the same traditions and heritage. We laugh, we cry, we produce an amazing amount of stories in our weekly 2 hour session! we have built trust and understanding of each other, it's so much more than just a writing group, It's a sense of belonging. Our stories are precious, our own! and we should be the ones to tell them!“ – said Course Leader, Dee Copper.

We spoke to a few of the women involved in the collective to find out more about their experience of the pilot.

Stacey Hodgkins said,  “I feel my writing has grown and I get more creative as the weeks go on and even through struggles I have this is the best escape to have . Writing together and supporting each other through laughter and tears I love this group“ ❤️

 “I look forward to class and our new writing prompts each session. I enjoy the time spent in company of other women of the GRT communities, getting to learn not only about writing, but the women of the group and actually about ourselves.“  Dolly added.

Brittania went on to say; “When I was offered to take part in the writing group I felt daunted because I didn't have much experience. After attending the first one I couldn't wait for the next. I have been attending for a few weeks now and can already tell the difference in my writing from before I came. The group feels safe and inclusive.“

Imogen Bright Moon reiterated;  “Writing is part of the craft of the group, something we explore, share and witness by listening. It’s the friendly, caring words of support, it’s the care and sisterhood of shared memories, feelings, hopes and dreams. When women’s voices share and speak together, wonderful things begin to grow. It is the group I didn’t know I needed, and I’m so grateful to be part of it.” 

If you’re interested in taking part in a future course please register your interest at writeintoculture@yahoo.com  The cohort are now working on a collective monologue project. You can follow Write into Culture  on insta @writeintoculture to keep track of the latest updates.