UK-based Polari Prize called out for honouring self-described ‘TERF’

A prominent LGBTQ+ literary award in the U.K. is facing backlash for platforming a self-identified TERF.

The Polari Prize recognizes the achievements of queer and trans authors in the U.K. and Ireland. Last week, the organization announced its 2025 long list, which included the novella Earth by gay Irish author John Boyne. 

Most known for The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, Boyne has been criticized for how he depicted the trans experience in his 2019 young adult novel My Brother’s Name Is Jessica. Boyne has also been openly championing the anti-trans views of J.K. Rowling. In a piece for the Irish Independent, he noted that he stands behind her as “a fellow TERF.”

In a statement, Polari wrote that it is “committed to inclusion, not exclusion” and that it’s imperative to “hold radically different positions on substantive issues.”

According to Assigned Media, at least 11 authors have withdrawn their books from consideration due to Boyne’s inclusion and Polari’s response. And at least two judges, including last year’s prize winner Nicola Dinan, have resigned from their duties.

We look into the response from Polari and how the controversy could set a precedent for similar awards in other parts of the world.