To donate to the Eaton Fires, visit: https://linktr.ee/eatonfire Jillian Mercado (she/her) shares her journey from the fashion industry to acting, particularly her role in The 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 emphasizes the 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. 00:00 Introduction and Sundance Experience 03:57 The Impact of Disability Identity on Fashion 06:16 Character Development and Personal Connection 09:04 The Importance of Representation in Media 12:00 Wicked: A Life-Changing Experience 14:51 Nessa Rose and Representation in Wicked 18:09 Historical Accuracy in Character Portrayal 19:35 Representation in Fictional Worlds 20:26 The Aesthetics of Adaptive Design 21:01 Fashion and Disability: A New Perspective 22:49 The Impact of COVID-19 on Creative Processes 24:15 Navigating Intimacy and Safety on Set 25:12 The Essence of Queer Joy in Storytelling 26:37 Building Community in the Industry 28:03 Future Aspirations in Fashion 30:04 Authentic Representation in Media 31:21 Finding Joy in Disability 32:10 The Power of Community 34:13 The Importance of Authentic Casting 35:37 Unity in Advocacy