Pioneering a Career as a Visually Impaired Writer: From Consistent Creation to Inclusive Publishing Advocacy

Kartunet - A career as a writer or literary artist is one of the most promising and accessible professional paths for visually impaired individuals. In the modern era, the presence of screen reader software on computers and smartphones has broken down barriers in the typing process. However, transforming a mere hobby of crafting words into a professional career that can sustain oneself certainly requires a comprehensive strategy.

Based on insights from young visually impaired literacy activists in the Phoenix 29 and LINTAS (Literacy Without Limits) communities, here is a comprehensive roadmap for visually impaired individuals to embark on a career in writing.

1. Overcoming Insecurity and Building Consistency

The first fundamental step that aspiring visually impaired writers must conquer lies in the psychological aspect. Zizi, an accomplished writer from the Phoenix 29 community, emphasizes the importance of shedding feelings of insecurity or overthinking about writing quality in the early stages. Many novice writers are hindered by overthinking whether their work will be liked or if its layout is neat.

The main key to overcoming this is to increase reading experience. Reading print book references (through digital formats) will automatically enrich a visually impaired writer's vocabulary and refine sentence structure. Additionally, Aida from the LINTAS community shares a very practical consistency tip: make it a habit to write at specific times regularly, for example, just one paragraph per day, which will gradually accumulate into a complete work.

2. Anthology Path and Digital Portfolio

For writers without a track record, making a debut through an anthology book project (collaborative work) is highly recommended before moving on to publishing a solo book. Furthermore, contemporary visually impaired writers are also required to cleverly utilize digital spaces as a showcase for their work. Instead of keeping manuscripts in a drawer, distributing them via social media, blogs, or producing them as audio dramas on YouTube are highly strategic steps.

Beyond building a readership, utilizing these digital platforms also serves a dual purpose as an advocacy step to create inclusivity in the digital realm. For instance, presenting literary works on a blog with screen reader-friendly text (without too many unreadable image insertions), or adding captions (subtitles) to audiovisual works, will make literature enjoyable for diverse audiences without physical limitations.

3. Breaking into Publishing and Advocating for Visual Accessibility

Once the manuscript is polished, the next challenge is dealing with the publishing industry. Writers must be astute in finding publishers with a track record or a major line that aligns with the manuscript's theme to increase the chances of selection.

During the editing process, visually impaired writers should not hesitate to be upfront with publishers about their disability. Limitations in seeing visual elements (such as font weight, font size, or page layout) can be overcome by requesting collaborative assistance from the publisher's editor.

Equally crucial in publishing contracts is advocating for post-publication accessibility rights. Visually impaired writers have the right to negotiate and lobby publishers to not only print physical books but also to provide the final copy in digital format (soft file). The purpose is essential: so that the visually impaired writer can still access and read the work they painstakingly wrote themselves using a screen reader.

4. Legal Guarantee: Facilitating Access Through Government Regulation 27/2019

The demand for digital manuscript accessibility is not excessive; rather, it is a right guaranteed by the state. Based on Government Regulation (PP) Number 27 of 2019 concerning Facilitation of Access to Creations for Persons with Disabilities, the state explicitly provides protection for visually impaired individuals.

This regulation mandates the provision of ease in the form of Access Facilitation, which is the right to acquire, use, and even change the format of a creation (book/literature) into a digital copy, audiobook, or braille. Most importantly, this Government Regulation guarantees that all forms of format alteration purely intended to meet the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities are not considered copyright infringement as long as they are non-commercial. This legal basis must be a guide for writers with disabilities when educating publishers about the importance of providing e-book or soft file versions.

Conclusion

The world of literature proves that visual impairment is by no means an obstacle to producing masterpieces. As stated by theater artist Yuda Wirajaya, a literary work will continue to live and speak within society long beyond the author's own lifespan. With tenacious consistency, the utilization of inclusive digital platforms, and the courage to advocate for publishing, visually impaired individuals can transform words not merely into tools of expression, but into instruments for empowerment and achieving brilliant career success. (DPM)

References:

• "59th Pertuni Anniversary Webinar: Empowered by Words". YouTube Indonesian Blind Association.
• Government Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia Number 27 of 2019 concerning Facilitation of Access to Creations for Persons with Disabilities in Reading and Using Braille, Audiobooks, and Other Means.