2024:Program/Easy tools to improve the visibility of women

View on Commons

Session title: Easy tools to improve the visibility of women

Session type: Poster

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

Language: en

A well-known example of gender bias in Wikipedia is the poor representation of women's biographies. Edit-a-thons address the problem, but a broader perspective should be considered. If Wikidata and Commons are included, the visibility of women can be improved. As part of a street project, the local Wikipedia:Hannover group populated Wikidata with information about streets named after women and uploaded photos with street signs to Commons. The namesakes became more visible through photos of legend boards, new Wikidata entries and, in some cases, new Wikipedia articles.

Description

A well-known example of gender bias in Wikipedia is the poor representation of women's biographies. Edit-a-thons address the problem, but a broader perspective should be considered. If Wikidata and Commons are included, the visibility of women can be improved. As part of a street project, the local Wikipedia:Hannover group populated Wikidata with information about streets named after women and uploaded photos with street signs to Commons. The namesakes became more visible through photos of legend boards, new Wikidata entries and, in some cases, new Wikipedia articles.

How does your session relate to the event theme, Collaboration of the Open?

The suggested tools for improving the visibility of women can be used by both experienced Wikipedians and absolute beginners. They can easily be taught as a supplement at introductory events and edit-a-thons. If a Wikipedia article about a “non-relevant” woman has been deleted a Wikidata entry can secure the knowledge. The project is easily transferable. The street documentation can e.g. be used for streets named after people from marginalised groups. Wikidata makes all entries directly available in all wiki languages. English-language Commons categories are understandable almost everywhere or, if necessary, can easily be added to photos. Anyone can join in.

What is the experience level needed for the audience for your session?

Everyone can participate in this session

Speakers

• Bärbel Miemietz

I have been an active member of the German Wikipedia community since 8 March 2020. Since the first day I have been part of the Wikipedia:Hannover team. I take part in the weekly meetings and like the collaboration a lot.

I write articles on the German Wikipedia, especially about women. Sometimes, I like to use my knowledge of Slavic languages, for example when I wrote articles on 7 of the new female Polish ministers.

I take photos, upload them, try to describe what can be seen and if necessary, create categories. I take part in photo competitions and I’m part of the Commons Photographers User Group.

I’m active on Wikidata and try to promote it. I create new entries, add information to existing entries and translate descriptions into the languages I know.

I’m also a member of the German FemNetz. I take part in the meetings and generally try to support women and women’s topics.

For some time I have been giving introductions to writing on Wikipedia, especially for women, mostly in collaboration with members of Wikipedia:Hannover.

I’m interested in the movement strategy and in international collaboration, especially the collaboration of women.