A funfair has apologized for a float carrying men dressed as female Olympians after complaints it was “transphobic”.
The Great Torrington Mayfair & Carnival is a four day celebration that dates back to the 13th century and is held in Devon every May. Maypole dancers perform for crowds, a footrace is held and floats parade through the streets.
However, one of this year’s floats caused outrage as it was adorned with placards that read, “Of course we’re women — we sit down to pee!” and another who said the float operators were part of the “Olympic 2024 Women’s 100m Final”. It was an apparent mockery of transgender athletes are allowed to participate in women’s sports†
Donna Landy, a transgender comedian who attended the carnival, said: “When I caught up with the float and read the sign that my heart sank, it clearly mocked trans athletes in the sport and by extension all trans people.”
No registration form submitted
Carnival organizers said no entry form had been submitted for the float and it would have been declined if it had. They said more stewards will follow the procession next year.
“It looks like the float joined the procession, out of sight of anyone in the committee as it drove off and we assume, with the signage covered, this will be revealed further along the route,” a statement said.
“We managed to confirm a person who was part of this entry and Councilor Doug Smith, the chairman, will visit them to discuss the inappropriateness of the submission and feedback perception from the wider community. We will make it clear that this submission was unacceptable and the committee will do its utmost to ensure that they don’t come in anymore with all that is probable cause a similar violation.
“Overall, the committee is disappointed that this has happened and does not promote or encourage an attitude of hatred in any way.
“The committee regrets people’s feelings this has caused and very much hopes that all concerned are assured of our best intentions and have adequately addressed the issues raised with improved plans for the coming years.”