by John Copenhaver

Sisters in Crime is an invaluable organization for aspiring and published crime writers alike, especially those underrepresented in the genre: writers of color and queer writers. Its focus extends beyond education and community to advocacy. As a queer crime writer, I’ve always felt embraced by SinC. When Kristen Lepionka, Steph Gayle, Jeff Marks, Marco Carocari, and I founded Queer Crime Writers, SinC stepped forward to help. They’ve lent their resources and expertise to our behind-the-scenes planning, shared table space at conferences, and shown real enthusiasm for what we’re trying to accomplish. We co-hosted the Underrepresented Voices event at Bouchercon 2025. They also established the Pride Award, Sherry Harris’s project after her term as president, which continues to support and connect LGBTQIA+ writers. In every sense, they’re an ally. I’m proud to be a member, and I do what I can to support fellow members through lectures and craft advice.”

About John Copenhaver:
John judged the inaugural Pride Award, began collaborating with SinC in 2021 as an organizer of Queer Crime Writers, and advised on the Conference Inclusivity Resource.

For More on the History of SinC: https://www.sistersincrime.org/page/history