The Singing Striders choir has been disinvited from supporting runners at this Sunday’s London Marathon by the disability charity Scope, due to the gender-critical views expressed by its founder, Janet Murray.

Disinvitation Following Complaints

The choir, a regular presence at races offering encouragement to participants, had been booked by Scope to perform at the mile-three mark in Woolwich. However, the arrangement was cancelled after the charity received anonymous complaints regarding Ms. Murray’s public statements concerning gender ideology.

This ideology posits that gender is a matter of self-identification, independent of biological sex. Scope communicated to Ms. Murray that her opposition to this concept conflicted with the charity’s stated commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Founder's Previous Statements

Janet Murray, a journalist and writer, has previously voiced her concerns about the inclusion of biological males in women’s sports and organizations traditionally designated for women, such as Girlguiding. The decision to remove The Singing Striders was reportedly triggered by two anonymous complaints lodged against Ms. Murray’s expressed opinions.

Scope's Defense

Scope has defended its decision, emphasizing its dedication to the equality and inclusion of transgender and non-binary individuals, particularly those with disabilities.

Murray's Response

Speaking to The Telegraph, Ms. Murray lamented the intrusion of what she termed ‘cancel culture’ into a traditionally joyful event like a marathon, highlighting its pervasive and insidious nature. She stressed that she deliberately separates her personal political views from her involvement with the choir.

She emphasized that the group’s primary purpose is to uplift and support others through charitable fundraising. Ms. Murray pointed out the irony of Scope introducing a political dimension into an event intended solely to support charity runners, effectively silencing the choir in the process.

Marathon Details and Scope's Position

The choir had previously participated in several marathons for Scope without incident, and the cancellation came despite a confirmed booking with travel costs covered by the charity. Scope’s chief executive, John McLachlan, acknowledged and respected the right of individuals to hold differing views on inclusion and gender.

However, he underscored the importance of how those views are communicated, particularly when they risk alienating others. He stated that Scope deemed it inappropriate for Ms. Murray to represent the organization given her publicly expressed views, reflecting the charity’s values and its commitment to its staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Record-Breaking Participation

The London Marathon is anticipating a record-breaking number of finishers this year, exceeding last year’s total of 56,640 participants. Over 59,000 runners are preparing for the 26.2-mile race, where The Singing Striders were originally scheduled to perform.

Event director Hugh Brasher affirmed the London Marathon’s strong commitment to women’s rights, particularly within the elite competition. He also noted the event’s broader aim to be as inclusive as possible in the mass participation element.