The Lack of Diversity in Publishing—and Why It Matters
Publishing remains overwhelmingly white. Here's why that matters—and what Row House is doing to build a more representative, equitable future.
The publishing industry has long been criticized for its lack of diversity. From executive leadership to editorial boards to the authors on bookstore shelves, the overwhelming whiteness of the industry has shaped what stories get told and whose voices are elevated.
This underrepresentation isn't just a numbers problem. It's a storytelling problem. When marginalized voices are excluded, readers miss out on complex, authentic, and powerful perspectives that challenge dominant narratives and expand our understanding of the world.
In 2019, the second Diversity Baseline Survey from Lee & Low Books found that more than 76% of publishing staff identified as white. That number hasn't shifted dramatically in recent years. Meanwhile, BIPOC authors continue to face systemic challenges when trying to break into traditional publishing, from biased gatekeeping to under-marketing of their titles.
What results is a literary ecosystem that often centers white, cisgender, able-bodied voices and sidelines others. But stories shape culture. When publishing lacks diversity, our collective cultural memory becomes distorted.
At Row House, we believe publishing should reflect the richness of real life. That means actively working to dismantle barriers for authors of color, queer writers, disabled storytellers, and creators from underrepresented communities. We don’t just make space—we build the infrastructure.
Solutions and Calls to Action:
Support books by BIPOC, queer, disabled, and underrepresented authors—especially from independent publishers.
Hold publishers accountable for transparency in staffing, acquisition, and marketing practices.
Encourage aspiring writers from diverse backgrounds to pursue publishing—not just as authors, but as editors, designers, and industry leaders.
Row House’s Guided Indie Publishing program is one place where equity is the starting point, not the afterthought. Learn more here.