Mermaids, representation, and white authors

More than enough has been said about the casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel in the live-action The Little Mermaid. Let’s just say if you’re outraged that an imaginary creature is played by someone other than a white person, or you want to deny Black kids the joy of seeing a leading character who looks like them — that says more about you as a person than it does about Disney.

This moment gives us as white authors a chance to reflect on what representation, diversity, and inclusion means in our works. We have to face a few uncomfortable truths.

First, different communities don’t need us to tell their stories for them. They have their own talented storytellers and amazing stories. If we want to be good allies, we should support those authors, buy their books, and promote their work.

Second, our writing — whether intentional or not — reflects our beliefs.

Terrible people can create wonderful art. But problematic authors are often problematic people. When we look at some of the ugly stereotypes in the Harry Potter series, should we really be surprised by the awful things JK Rowling has said and done since then? You can also say the same about Roald Dahl, Robert Heinlein, and other authors. Hidden biases and a dependence on too-familiar stereotypes can also trip up the most well-intentioned of…