Welcome to The Persistent.
We’re a journalism platform dedicated to amplifying women’s voices, stories, perspectives and ideas.
Unlike in mainstream news where women’s stories are often sidelined, here you’ll always find women at the center of the story.
What will you find here?
Essays, ideas and conversations that push back on sexist tropes, gendered defaults and societal stereotypes.
We will encourage discussion and discourse and anchor our debates in curiosity and respect.
Our editorial model is built on the idea that covering women fully means working with a multiplicity of contributors—journalists, authors, writers, illustrators, photographers—to paint a rich and nuanced picture of women in the world. Many contributors make for many viewpoints; and many viewpoints is our raison d’etre at The Persistent.
Why The Persistent?
The short answer is that we can’t afford not to be. But there’s a longer answer, too.
The earliest known use of the noun “persistence” dates back to the mid-1500s. It’s derived from the Latin verb persistere—to continue with strength. Contemporary definitions of the word point to perseverance, resilience, and a determination to steadfastly move forward in the face of challenge and opposition.
We think that describes those who have fought for women’s equality, respect and recognition; those who have consistently called out injustice; those who have stood up for their values and beliefs; and those have remained uncowed in the face of intimidation and expectation.
Persistence is a quality, but it’s also a mindset. It’s the determination to fulfill a mission—and that is exactly what we strive to do.
We created this platform because of the vast and complex work that still remains to be done in order to elevate women in the economy, business, politics—and the world at large.
We will persist as long as it takes for women to be heard, seen, and valued.
Meet the team
The Persistent was launched in 2024 by Francesca Donner, formerly of The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. She is the founder, editor and CEO.
As with so many things, it takes a village, and The Persistent is no exception.
The Persistent simply would not exist without the founding team.
Most notably—
Josie Cox who has provided editorial inspiration and endless insight—as a founding editor.
Melissa Jun who has opened our eyes to how elegant a user journey can be—as a designer.
Emma Haslett who has brought order to our editorial process, along with brilliant ideas—as a managing editor.
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Contact us
We’d love to hear from you! Stories, book suggestions, news, notes, collaboration ideas, business ideas, the occasional complaint? Write to us at: hello@thepersistent.com.