Somehow I haven’t yet posted about The Organization for Transformative Works, a new non-profit
established by fans to serve the interests of fans by providing access to and preserving the history of fanworks and fan culture in its myriad forms. We believe that fanworks are transformative and that transformative works are legitimate.
As shown by the first Board of Directors including such heavy-hitters as Naomi Novik, Rebecca Tushnet, and Francesca Coppa, OTW is aware of the gender issues involved in fandom and “The OTW represents a practice of transformative fanwork historically rooted in a primarily female culture.” Yet interestingly enough, Henry Jenkins, “Sir Convergence Culture” is the only person interviewed for the Chronicle‘s story for the importance of this organization:
“…a series of conflicts this year which raised awareness within the fan community of the need to take action to protect the integrity of their own traditions and to maintain control over their own cultural practices,” said Mr. Jenkins today. “Fans are pooling their knowledge and skills to push their community to the next level.”
This sounds like a very exciting and needed new organization! To get involved, volunteer here. And to read a critique of OTW’s view of transformative works, look here.