WDVE 102.5 FM recently faced significant backlash for airing transphobic remarks on the syndicated John Clay Wolfe Show on August 3, 2024. The broadcast, which included derogatory language and harmful jokes targeting Algerian Olympic boxer Imane Khelif, sparked outrage across the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies. In response, WDVE’s Senior Vice President of Programming, David Edgar, issued an apology, calling the broadcast “thoughtless and offensive”, and vowed to work with PFLAG to further educate on-air talent.
“WDVE is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community,” Edgar said in his response.
“We look forward to exploring how to do more in support of [WDVE] staff and listeners, as good community partners,” PFLAG Pittsburgh said.
The problematic broadcast in question involved Wolfe and his crew misgendering Khelif, mocking her gender identity, and repeatedly using a slur targeting the transgender community. Among the remarks, they ridiculed Khelif, implying that her matches were a form of “men beating up women” and joked that “luckily, there’s only 19 of those people in the entire world, so it’s okay”. Such comments not only perpetuate harmful stereotypes but also normalize transphobic attitudes.
PFLAG Pittsburgh quickly organized their letter, with notable figures such as Mayor Ed Gainey, Pennsylvania state legislators, and QBurgh signing on. The letter, addressed to WDVE leadership, condemned the broadcast, calling for an apology and further action.
In their statement, PFLAG emphasized the dire consequences of such rhetoric, particularly for transgender people of color, who are already disproportionately affected by violence and discrimination. The letter cited the murder of 14-year-old transgender girl Pauly Likens earlier this summer in Sharon, PA, as a tragic example of the violence facing the community.
David Edgar responded promptly to PFLAG’s concerns, agreeing that the broadcast was “thoughtless and offensive.” He stated that the station had reached out to John Clay Wolfe, who subsequently issued an on-air apology. Edgar also expressed interest in partnering with PFLAG and other LGBTQIA+ advocates to provide education and training for on-air talent regarding how to better discuss LGBTQIA+ topics.
In a follow-up letter, PFLAG praised WDVE for their swift response and commitment to improving inclusivity. They highlighted WDVE’s importance in the community and expressed optimism about working together to create a more supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ listeners.