We are pleased to announce that the RNA has formed a Rainbow Chapter for members who identify as LGBTQIA+, are writing novels featuring LGBTQIA+ characters, or who are interested and wish to learn more.

The move is part of the RNA’s ongoing work to increase diversity in romantic and relationship-driven fiction, and to ensure that members from groups under-represented in publishing feel welcome and included in the association.

Julie Cohen, vice president of the RNA, founded the Chapter. She said: “Love is the most profound experience in any person’s life and we want our members to write about the full range of human emotion, regardless of gender or sexuality. We’d like to encourage authors who write LGBTQIA+ fiction to consider joining the RNA if they haven’t already, and to encourage publishers and authors to enter LGBTQIA+ novels in our Romantic Novel Awards.’

The founding of the Rainbow Chapter is part of a range of initiatives across the RNA to become more inclusive, with further announcements to come at our Winter Party & Industry Awards event in November.