The Polari Prize has been paused following a widespread boycott initiated by over 800 industry professionals in response to John Boyne's trans-exclusionary views. Boyne's support for JK Rowling prompted disappointment among LGBTQ+ communities, leading to withdrawals by 16 authors and two judges, including last year's winner. Organisers acknowledged the decision's hurtfulness and committed to enhancing representation of trans and non-conforming judges. A governance review is also planned to align with the aims and values of the LGBTQ+ community amid rising anti-trans sentiments.
We are profoundly disappointed by the Polari prize's decision to include John Boyne on the longlist for this year's Polari book prize. In any year, the decision to include Mr Boyne on the longlist would be, in our view, inappropriate and hurtful to the wider community of LGBTQ+ readers and writers.
Organisers have confirmed the decision to pause this year's Polari Prize, committing to increase representation of trans and gender non-conforming judges on the panels for all the awards and undertake a governance and management review.
A campaign calling for a boycott of the Polari Prize stemmed from Boyne's views on transgender issues and support for British author JK Rowling.
Of the 24 authors longlisted for the top Polari Prize, 16 authors withdrew, along with two judges, including last year's winner Nicola Dinan.
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