Fury as transgender cartoonist who claims to have fetish for nappy art is set to speak to children

A transgender cartoonist who makes fetish art of furry creatures wearing nappies has sparked controversy after being booked by a library to give a talk to teenagers and families.

Canadian artist Sophie Labelle is set to speak at Sheffield Central Library on Monday.

The comic book creator is going to talk about her book The Best of Assigned Male, art and activism, as well as trans experiences.

But there have been concerns raised over the suitability of the speaker for children as young as 13, who can attend.

The February 27 event is advertised as ‘suitable for adults, teens and families’.

Sophie has previously spoken about a penchant for ‘diaperfur art’, but has insisted ‘I have a kink I indulge in responsibly and I refuse to be shamed for it’.

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Canadian artist Sophie Labelle is set to speak at Sheffield Central Library on Monday

Some of Sophie Labelle’s art as posted on the artist’s publicly viewable Twitter account feed

Conservative MP Miriam Cates has written to Sheffield Council – which runs the library – urging it to reconsider the event.

She said: ‘Even the most cursory background checks on Sophie Labelle thrown up serious safeguarding red flags.

‘In no way can the work or “activism” of this author be considered suitable for children.

‘It is widely agreed by child safeguarding experts, and across society, that it is wrong and deeply damaging to expose children to sexualised material.

Sophia Labelle creates artworks often featuring animals imparting a message on certain topics

Sheffield Central Library, pictured, has sparked controversy over the booking

 Miriam Cates has written to Sheffield Council – which runs the library – urging it to reconsider

‘I strongly urge you to investigate this matter urgently and to act to safeguard children and prevent Sheffield from being brought into disrepute.’ 

Sophie told the Telegraph: ‘My work aims to empower trans youth and illustrate trans joy.

‘I have done hundreds of talks and public events, in youth groups, libraries, schools, without any incident.’

Richard Williams, a council member, said: ‘Sheffield is a diverse and inclusive city.

‘The event is aimed at teenagers upwards, but we know some families do attend Sophie’s talks and did not want to exclude them.’