I wrote this over on Mastodon earlier today and thought I would share it here as well.
I have had several fellow authors over the past few years tell me that I should keep my politics to myself lest I offend a potential reader.
So, here’s the thing.
My books almost all contain an overarching theme of the ill effects of prejudice and bigotry. They show the roles of women throughout history, and the challenges they faced due to societal constraints. Three of my heroines deal with health issues (two physical, one mental).
Nothing changes for marginalized people if we “keep our politics to ourselves” as artists. We need to tell our stories, yes … but we also need to stand up for those whose stories are being quashed by more powerful folks with harmful agendas.
So, no. I won’t be keeping my politics to myself any time soon. My right readers will find me, and they will understand.