Writing the “Other”: Diversity & Representation with Renée Otmar

Explore what it means to write sensitively and respectfully with and about diversity.

Writers often set out to capture readers’ imaginations, but first they must engage the reader’s mind. First impressions count, yet ultimately it is the reader’s sense of a work’s relatability that matters most. The writer’s style, which includes voice, grammatical nuances and word choices, creates the sense of connection with the reader.

Connection demands an inherent sensitivity and respect for the reader.

How do we ensure respect? That our writing reflects the sensitivities of contemporary Australian society and its diverse communities? In turn, and perhaps in contrast, how might we ensure authentic representation, appropriate to context? In doing so, do we risk limiting our freedom of expression?

In this workshop we will explore what it means to write sensitively and respectfully with and about diversity. Our discussion will touch on debates about artistic freedom, cultural appropriation, representation of culture, ethnicity, neurodiversity and dis/ability, gender identity and sexuality, and the influences of recent social movements such as #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo and #ownvoices.

We will look at options for formal and informal review, including when to engage alpha, beta or gamma readers, or a sensitivity editor for assessment of authenticity, representation, diversity and inclusion.

Learning outcomes

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will have gained an understanding of a range of topical debates on authenticity, diversity and inclusion, including when and how to engage independent readers and editors.

The workshop will include a short comfort break every hour and interactive elements such as:

• Group and small-group discussions

• Individual exercises and/or paired activities

• Q&A.

Participants will be invited to share (brief) examples of problems in their own writing.

Format

This is an online workshop with a focus on craft; it will be hosted via Zoom. This workshop is suitable for writers of all levels and writing backgrounds.
      

About Renée

Renée Otmar has been a professional editor since 1989 and has worked extensively as an editor, public health researcher and ethicist. She is a consultant and practising editor in academic, creative nonfiction and fiction genres – in contemporary fiction, historical fiction, crime fiction and romance. She is a writer, ghostwriter and producer of life stories. Renée provides teaching and training for writers and editors, and regularly presents guest lectures, workshops and seminars on writing craft, editing practice, and writing and editing for diversity and representation. A certified coach, she also provides training and professional supervision for editors and writers working with sensitive, explicit or distressing content. Renée has served as a board director and on human research ethics committees since 2013.

For more information about Queensland Writers Centre’s Program of Events and answers to FAQs, please visit: www.queenslandwriters.org.au/program-info