Archive · 12 Aug 2025
Polari Prize Faces Backlash Over Anti-Trans Author's Nomination
The Polari Prize, a big award for LGBTQ+ writers, is having a problem.
A writer named John Boyne, who doesn't like transgender people, was nominated.
Some people are mad because of this, and some authors and judges have quit the awards.
Over 800 people also signed a letter asking the prize to remove him.
The people in charge of the prize are trying to figure out what to do.
They said they know some people are upset and will change how they do things for next year.
This is happening when a lot of people are being mean to transgender people.
The Polari Prize, a prestigious LGBTQ+ literary award, is facing controversy due to the inclusion of nominee John Boyne, who has expressed anti-trans views.
Multiple authors and judges have withdrawn from the Polari Prize in response to Boyne's nomination.
Over 800 authors and industry figures signed an open letter calling for Boyne's removal.
The Polari Prize committee acknowledged the controversy, defended Boyne's inclusion, and announced a review of their prize process.
The controversy has occurred in the context of rising anti-trans sentiment.
- Who
- The Polari Prize committee, author John Boyne, withdrawing authors and judges, and the LGBTQ+ literary community.
- What
- Controversy surrounding the inclusion of John Boyne, an author with anti-trans views, in the Polari Prize.
- When
- The controversy arose after the longlist for the Polari Prize was published on August 1.
- Where
- The United Kingdom.
- Why
- Because of Boyne's anti-trans views and the concerns about the impact on the LGBTQ+ community.
Those Supporting Boyne's Nomination
Those Against Boyne's Nomination
Inclusivity vs. Exclusion
Those Supporting Boyne's Nomination
Some feel it is important to include differing beliefs, including those of Boyne.
Those Against Boyne's Nomination
Those against Boyne's nomination see his inclusion as hurtful.
- Award
- Polari Prize
- Controversy
- John Boyne's nomination
- Response
- Withdrawals & open letter
- Committee Action
- Reviewing prize process
- Category
- LGBTQ+ Literary Award