Organisers cancel book prize over trans controversy
Summary
Organizers have canceled the Polari Prize, an award meant to promote LGBTQ+ writing, due to issues over the inclusion of author John Boyne. Boyne, nominated for the prize, faced objections from other nominees over comments he made supporting JK Rowling's views on transgender rights. As a result, many nominees withdrew, leading to the cancellation of the prize for this year.Key Facts
- The Polari Prize is an annual award started in 2011 for authors writing about LGBTQ+ life in the UK or Ireland.
- John Boyne was nominated for the Polari Prize but faced backlash over his article supporting JK Rowling's views on transgender rights.
- More than 800 publishing industry figures signed a letter against Boyne's nomination.
- Over 10 longlisted authors withdrew from consideration in protest of Boyne's inclusion.
- Due to the controversy, the Polari Prize organizers decided not to award the prize this year.
- Trans author Dr. Avi Ben-Zeev chose to stay on the longlist despite others withdrawing.
- The Polari Prize plans to return in 2026 after this year's cancellation.
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