Caller: A conference only for black writers? That’s racist to white people!
Me: Under the Equality Act 2010 and its provision for Positive Action, the conference is justified because we as an organisation reasonably think that Black writers suffer a disadvantage linked to their race and have a disproportionately low level of participation in the UK writing industry and bestseller lists and the Conference encourages this group to overcome this disadvantage and encourages participation. The event is moreover a proportionate response to the issue... Does that fly for you?
Caller: Uh?
Me: Besides, the conference is open to all. You are welcome to attend. How would you like to book?
Caller: I’ll get back to you on that.