Dear agent,
So you decided to add disability to your MSWL…

(accountability thread)

An overwhelming number of disabled authors feel completely alone in this industry. So much so that they're elated when an agent puts out a call for disabled stories. What happens next is often a disaster...

These authors are usually rejected, often with feedback that is at its core ableist. A rejection like that is devastating. It reaffirms what we know: the industry is inaccessible. And it can end up chasing disabled authors from publishing altogether.

So, agents, how can you ensure you’re doing everything necessary to be inclusive? I’m going to outline a few tips here. These are by no means the beginning and the end of the issue. This is just the start.

Firstly, look at your MSWL. Have you used an offensive term for disability ie: special needs, differently abled? If yes, you’re not ready to represent a disabled author. You don’t even know the right terminology. You’re not a safe space for disabled people.

Does your MSWL make judgements about who is disabled and who isn’t? I’ve seen someone say “Well, bipolar isn’t a disability, so it doesn’t count as real diversity.” This came from a powerful gatekeeper.

It’s not your job to decide who gets to be in the group. That’s a community discussion. But yes, ND/mental illness/chronic illness all belong in the group. Period. Catch up, please.

Next, do you intend to actually sign a disabled author? Look at your list. Do you rep any disabled authors? No? Why not? I can guarantee you’re getting queries. So what’s up? Are you rejecting the work because you haven’t addressed your own biases?

Are your rejections ableist? Example:

- I liked the disability rep, but it didn’t (conform to my preconceived notions about disability).
- I was looking for a more inspirational element to the story.
- It would be better to remove (disability). Make it queer instead.

And the ever-insidious:

I just couldn't connect.

Don’t let yourself off the hook here. I know for a fact most of you have said something to this effect. We talk. But this is an opportunity to learn. You can do better. We’re more than willing to work with you on this. Because we care about meaningful change in the industry.

Next, *can* disabled authors query you? I mean, is it possible? Some of you use form that are inaccessible. Some of your websites are inaccessible. I suggest working with an expert to ensure everyone who wants to query you can do so.

So you’ve signed a disabled author....

Congrats! What now? Have you considered how your methods may be inaccessible? Have you discussed industry bias and how you will push back on that in submissions?

The work doesn’t end at adding disability to your MSWL. It doesn’t end when you request a full. It doesn’t end when you sign a disabled author. It can never end because access to opportunity is a right.

If anything, I hope agents are encouraged to get deeper into the work. I'm rooting for you because disabled authors are an untapped well of talent. Their perspectives can enrich every aspect of this industry