From Homer to Tim O’Brien, war literature remains largely the domain of male writers, and traditional narratives imply that the burdens of war are carried by men. But women and children disproportionately suffer the consequences of conflict: famine, disease, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma caused by loss of loved ones, property, and means of subsistence.

Collateral Damage tells the stories of those who struggle on the margins of armed conflict or who attempt to rebuild their lives after a war. Bringing together the writings of female authors from across the world, this collection animates the wartime experiences of women as military mothers, combatants, supporters, war resisters, and victims. Their stories stretch from Rwanda to El Salvador, Romania to Sri Lanka, Chile to Iraq. Spanning fiction, poetry, drama, essay, memoir, and reportage, the selections are contextualized by brief author commentaries.

The first collection to embrace so wide a range of contemporary authors from such diverse backgrounds, Collateral Damage seeks to validate and shine a light on the experiences of women by revealing the consequences of war endured by millions whose voices are rarely heard.

The event will feature guest lecturers including:

Marjorie Agosin, Wellesly College
Christine Evans, Georgetown University
Aminatta Forna, Georgetown University
Barbara Mujica, Georgetown University
Dominica Radulescu, Washington and Lee University
Florinda Ruiz, Washington and Less University
Michele Sarde, Georgetown University

A social gathering will follow the event where complimentary appetizers and beer/wine will be served.

Special Thanks!

A note of thanks to our sponsors, AWL Strategies, Georgetown University's Women Center, and Georgetown University Library, who made this event possible through their generosity and commitment to elevating the voices of women everywhere.

Collateral Damage: Women Write About War (Attend virtually or in-person)