The Once and Future Witches

by Alix E. Harrow

“A shame. Suffragists have a reputation for opinions.” “I’m not really a suffragist. I mean, I’m not a formal member of the Association.” “Nor am I, and yet I persist in having all manner of opinions and observations.”

the New Salem Women’s Association is divided on the question of the color-line. Some worry that the inclusion of colored women might tarnish their respectable reputation; others feel they ought to spend a few more decades being grateful for their freedom before they agitate for anything so radical as rights. Most of them agree it would be far more convenient if colored women remained in the Colored Women’s League.

Juniper holds up a hand. “You’re here because you want more for yourselves, better for your daughters. Because it’s easy to ignore a woman.” Juniper’s lips twist in a feral smile. “But a hell of a lot harder to ignore a witch.”

Bella resettles her spectacles. “But the spell to call back the Lost Way of Avalon. It required a maiden, a mother, and a crone, did it not?” The Crone shrugs. “Every woman is usually at least one of those. Sometimes all three and a few others besides.”

“Run, sisters,” it will say, “You have nothing to lose but your chains.”