The publishing industry has historically exhibited discriminatory and systemic biases that have impacted marginalized individuals for decades, specifically BIPOC writers. Racial and cultural partiality heavily influences acquisitions in the literary world, and mainstream book writing and publishing practices have perpetuated stigmas and stereotypes against BIPOC. The underrepresentation, misrepresentation, and lack of access to equal opportunities have contributed to a sense of gatekeeping that makes it difficult for marginalized writers to seek equity. Instead, they’re expected to accept inadequate opportunities that undervalue their assets.