Breaking Down Gatekeeping in the World of Publishing

Between the authors landing 6 figure deals to the editors sourcing new talent: the publishing industry in America is much whiter than the general population. While some progress has been made since the #PublishingPaidMe movement of June 2020, there is still a long way to go to make the publishing industry equitable. On this episode, we learn about how industry insiders are breaking down barriers for aspiring authors of color. First, we hear from published author Khalisa Rae about how she found her voice as a poet and, after facing discrimination in her youth, found mentorship and belonging at an HBCU, which ultimately set her on the path to becoming an award-winning writer. Then, host Carla Harris sits down with publishing expert Dawn Michelle Hardy, also known as The Literary Lobbyist. Dawn has spent the last 20 years helping authors of color get published and paid, and shares her insights on what it takes to get a book published, as well as how she is seeing the industry become more accessible for talented writers who’ve traditionally been left off bookshelves, and what more needs to be done.

https://www.morganstanley.com/what-we-do/inclusive-innovation-and-opportunity

Disclaimer text

The guest speakers are neither employees nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC. (“Morgan Stanley”). The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and figures contained herein has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information or data contained in this podcast.

This podcast does not provide individually tailored investment advice and is not a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell any security or other financial instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.

© 2022 Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Members SIPC.