Nanowrimo have recently released a statement (see below) which can only be classed as ableist and classist. Therefore I will not be participating in any of their events moving forwards.
The disabled community tirelessly fights against ableism in every area of life. Nanowrimo’s position suggests that disabled writers cannot create quality work without relying on AI, which I find deeply troubling as an author with Dyslexia and multiple physical disabilities. Their stance is dismissive of the many disabled authors who have created incredible books and achieved great success.
The implication that writers from less affluent backgrounds are incapable of success is utterly ridiculous; throughout history, authors from all walks of life have achieved recognition and success.
While some have used Nanowrimo to help complete their titles, for many it is simply a fun challenge to themselves which also provides a community of likeminded individuals. However due to the disappointing, ableist and classist views that they have demonstrated it is not an event I will participate in again.
I sincerely hope that Nanowrimo learn from outcry of disabled authors and adjust their policies and views.
Dystonia and Me 