Hi All
It feels like that time of year again, a refresh of creative plans. This time last year I was working on short stories across genres to challenge myself. Writing Our Legacy was the organisation or rather charitable cause that made me feel I could create space for my own stories, and be in control of my own narrative. I believe this is significant for anyone who is non-binary, a person of colour, is queer, a migrant and disabled – all categories that both impose (socio-cultural-economic-political) structures of power and control, and ellicit responses from me based on action levers I have access to.
But what does it mean to create stories and art about your experiences with those who face the same challenges?
First, it is about confidence, assurance and safety. It reduces the sense that there is something irregular about yourself – a common feeling given experiences of marginalised people are negated and their actions reinterpreted from the perception of those with power and privilege (a well-researched area in academia).
Second, it provides opportunities to debate and share tools of resistance that enable marginalised voices to be heard. There are other reasons of course, any creative should find space to network, grow, learn, change, challenge and defend their right to creative pursuits. If you are a person of colour I recommend you join the network and/or read about their offers which include workshops (offered on a sliding scale), opportunity to submit your work for publication in Covert Literary Magazine.
Covert Literary Magazine – call for submissions open until 6 May 2026.
I seek to bring stories of intersectional identities that challenge dominant socio-political and cultural constructs for the benefit of all, especially in terms of advocating for human rights and all it entails.
However, it has been difficult weaving what I feel I need to say into creative fiction without it becoming more of an academic tract! Remember, it is not just about creating physical and financial space to follow ambition, it is also about mental space – and that is where being among others with similar experiences, or are non-performative allies can really help.
Wishing you courage, resourcefulness and community wellbeing in your creative pursuits!
Love
Olivia & Bailey (of course)
O. S. King 