Despite numerous changes in ownership, Ms. has stayed true to its mission to “inform, inspire and empower” women. Founded in 1971, the mag was the first mainstream feminist publication and continues to “put a feminist lens on politics, culture, society and global issues,” said senior editor Michele Kort.

More than 80 percent of the mag is freelance-written, and proving yourself to the editors can mean future assignments — editors like to cultivate close relationships with proven writers. For example, a reporter in Albuquerque who had been covering the unsolved murders of local women for years recently penned a piece highlighting the fact that these women, who were often involved in prostitution and/or drugs, were not as valued as much as other women in society. A freelancer also pitched an interview with noted feminist writer bell hooks.

Got an idea you think is perfect for the mag? Find out how to break through in How To Pitch: Ms. [Mediabistro AvantGuild subscription required]