Polari Prize Faces Mass Withdrawals Over John Boyne Inclusion

The Polari Prize 2025, a leading UK LGBTQ+ literary award, has faced significant backlash after nominating John Boyne for his novella Earth, prompting at least half of the longlisted authors and multiple judges to withdraw in protest. Boyne, known for his 2006 novel The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, has publicly described himself as a 'fellow Terf' and expressed views considered trans-exclusionary, sparking widespread criticism from the LGBTQ+ community. Hundreds of writers and publishing professionals have signed statements condemning his inclusion as incompatible with the award's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity, especially amid rising anti-trans sentiment. Several authors cited solidarity with the trans community and ethical objections to Boyne's views as reasons for their withdrawal, while some who remain have expressed nuanced positions but still expressed support for trans rights. The Polari Prize organizers have defended their decision to include Boyne but promised to review their nomination process in response to the controversy. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions within LGBTQ+ literary spaces regarding transgender inclusion and the boundaries of community representation.