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Jillian Mercado (she/her) shares her journey from the fashion industry to acting, particularly her role inThe L Word. She discusses the importance of representation for disabled and queer individuals in media, her personal connection to her character, and the impact of her experiences on her identity.

The discussion also touches on her transformative experience with Broadway, particularly with Wicked, and the significance of historical accuracy in character portrayal. In this conversation, Jillian Mercado discusses the importance of representation for disabled individuals in media and fashion.

She emphasizesthe need for authentic casting and the integration of adaptive design in fashion. The impact of COVID-19 on creative processes and the importance of community in the industry are also highlighted. Jillian shares her aspirations for the future of adaptive fashion and the significance of finding joy in disability, advocating for unity and representation in all creative & fluid fields.

00:00Introduction and Rundown from Sundance Experience03:57The Impact of Disability Identity on Fashion06:16Character Development and Personal Connection09:04The Importance of Representation in Media12:00Wicked: A Life-Changing Experience14:51Nessa Rose and Representation in Wicked18:09Historical Accuracy in Character Portrayal19:35Representation in Fictional Worlds20:26The Aesthetics of Adaptive Design21:01Fashion and Disability: A New Perspective22:49The Impact of COVID-19 on Creative Processes24:15Navigating Intimacy and Safety on Set25:12The Essence of Queer Joy in Storytelling26:37Building Community in the Industry28:03Future Aspirations in Fashion30:04Authentic Representation in Media31:21Finding Joy in Disability32:10The Power of Community34:13The Importance of Authentic Casting35:37Unity in Advocacy