Poet Takes Legal Stand Against Arts Council England Over Publication Withdrawal
A poet is preparing to take legal action against Arts Council England (ACE) after a magazine it funds withdrew her poem from publication, citing concerns about her social media presence. Abigail Ottley, represented by solicitors, alleges that the decision was discriminatory, targeting her gender-critical views expressed online.
Details of the Controversial Decision
In a letter sent to ACE last Tuesday, seen by the Guardian, Ottley's legal team argues that the public body failed to conduct a sufficient inquiry into the decision made by the Aftershock Review. The magazine, which received £32,368 from ACE in April 2025 and an additional £60,000 on 28 January, accepted Ottley's poem for publication in September but reversed its decision in October.
An email from Aftershock to Ottley stated, "Following an internal review, and in light of concerns raised about your social media presence, we've decided not to proceed with publishing your work in this issue." The email emphasized the magazine's commitment to being a trauma-informed and inclusive publication, ensuring contributors and readers feel safe and respected.
Allegations of Discrimination and Lack of Clarity
According to the legal letter, Ottley did not receive a response when she sought clarification about which aspects of her social media activity led to the withdrawal. Her social media posts primarily involve expressing and sharing gender-critical views, including retweeting figures like JK Rowling. The solicitors contend that without further explanation, the evidence suggests discrimination based on her beliefs.
Ottley complained to ACE in November and enlisted the support of the Freedom in the Arts (FITA) organization, which also lodged a complaint. In response, ACE stated in an email on 28 January that it found no breach of its funding terms by Aftershock, noting that the poem was not withdrawn due to gender-critical beliefs, though specific details of the review were not provided.
Legal Demands and Ongoing Proceedings
The legal letter demands that ACE disclose all documents related to the dismissal of Ottley's complaint and re-open the case to conduct a thorough investigation. It also calls for a review of ACE's decision to fund Aftershock, citing obligations under the Equality Act 2010 to prevent discrimination. The aim is to avoid litigation through these measures.
A spokesperson for ACE declined to comment, citing ongoing legal proceedings. The Aftershock Review has not responded to requests for comment, leaving the situation unresolved as tensions rise over artistic freedom and inclusivity in publicly funded arts.
