Ciadish (pronounced Key-adish) was created because chronically ill and disabled (CIAD) writers are becoming ever more visible in the literary world. In October, the second Disability issue of The Bookseller profiled many CIAD writers sharing stories in factual and fictional form. From autism to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, visual impairment to ME, more people are writing about their conditions - or simply writing with them - and getting published.
But not enough. And all too often, CIAD people are forgotten once the disability issue of The Bookseller, or disability awareness months pass.
People in the publishing industry often say they want to be inclusive - then exclude us when they don't make their events hybrid, neglect to wear masks (covid isn't over, people!) and refuse to change how they do things to make them more accessible.
Ciadish was created to remind people that CIAD people are here, we're not going away, we're skilled and we deserve the same access as all writers to publishing opportunities. Enjoy reading, share the link with friends (and strangers) on social media and spread the word: Ciadish writers are here - and we want fair treatment and space at the table.
It includes new books from CIAD writers, plus prizes, funding opportunities and accessibility tips to help non-disabled people learn about inclusivity. CIAD authors can learn more about inclusion too. We all have different needs but if we support each other, and lead the way in being inclusive, we'll all benefit.
About Ciadish
Feel free to share any articles in this magazine anywhere that it will help promote chronically ill and disabled writers. Message Emily @BarrowMember on Twitter if you have a news story you think we'll love or want to submit a book for consideration for review. The next issue wil be out in Jan/Feb 2023
Ciadish.co.uk