[1] As an editor, she has been highlighted as an important example of women journalists turning the traditionally domestic 'Woman's Page' to feminist ends.

[9][11] Dawson began her career as a journalist, writing for YWCA publications[12] and she was a seasoned socialist activist before she was chosen to be the editor of The Clarion's women's column.

[1] From its early days, the paper had included a women's column written by Eleanor Keeling and subsequently by Dawson.

[14] As editor, Dawson's concerns have been described as "immediate and practical", including "hints about more efficient housekeeping, propaganda for rational dress, appeals to women to join their nearest ILP branch, and contacts for isolated readers".

[8] Dawson also supported the provision of information on birth control, distributing Malthusian tracts to Clarion readers.

[5] Green notes that alongside other contributors to socialist papers, such as Rebecca West, in carving out a space for the voice of women in the political arena, Dawson helped make "the form of the woman's column anew".

[6] Following a good response to the appeal, the van set off on 18 June 1896, travelling from Chester through Shropshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Stockport, Yorkshire, Durham, and Northumberland.

[17]In the same editorial, Blatchford highlighted Dawson's significant role in managing the Cinderella Clubs (of which she was the first National Secretary),[7] which aimed to provide food and entertainment to children in poverty.