Memphis Mayor Issues Apology After Misgendering Transgender Heckler at Public Event
Mayor Paul Young of Memphis, Tennessee, has issued a public apology following an incident where he misgendered a female transgender activist during his 2026 State of the City address. The Democrat mayor was delivering a speech on economic development and community future when he was interrupted by protestors, leading to a contentious exchange that has sparked widespread criticism.
Disrupted Speech Leads to Controversial Remarks
During the address on Tuesday, Mayor Young faced disruptions from irate protestors speaking out against recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the area. Initially attempting to shake off the interruptions, Young could not ignore one protester after just five minutes into his speech. He turned his attention to Brandy Price, a local transgender politician who had run against him in the 2023 mayoral race, and said, 'Be respectful sir, be respectful sir. We are going to let him pull himself together.'
Young continued by adding, 'Give it up for Brandy Price, give it up for him. He wants some attention. Get him out of here,' using male pronouns twice to refer to Price, who identifies as a woman. This moment occurred as Young was discussing parents who had lost children to violence, highlighting the emotional tone of the event.
Backlash from LGBTQ+ Community and Swift Apology
The incident quickly drew condemnation from OUTMemphis, a local LGBTQ+ organization. Molly Quinn, CEO of OUTMemphis, took to social media to express disappointment, stating that Young's actions 'further challenge our faith in his willingness to protect us.' Quinn emphasised that protest is a vital tool for marginalised voices and criticised the mayor for showing a lack of kindness and respect, which she argued could encourage meaner behaviour in private settings.
Within hours, Mayor Young responded with an apology on X, acknowledging his mistake. He posted, 'It was brought to my attention that I used the wrong pronouns when addressing Brandy Price at last night’s State of the City. It was not intentional and I apologise for that. I respect her gender identity, our LGBTQ+ community, and I am grateful for the grace to learn, grow, and keep showing up for every Memphian.'
Context of Political Tensions and Broader Implications
Brandy Price, who has repeatedly referred to Young as 'Black ICE' on social media due to his collaboration with federal law enforcement, represents ongoing political tensions in Memphis. Quinn's statement also noted Young's past support for the LGBTQ+ community but raised concerns over his alliances with entities like Elon Musk, which she claims are harmful.
This incident underscores broader issues of respect, inclusivity, and the handling of dissent in public forums. As Memphis grapples with these dynamics, the mayor's apology aims to mend relations, but the event has ignited discussions on the importance of proper gender identification and the role of protest in democracy.
