Homophobic birthday invite RSVP – it was all a hoax

RADIO announcers from Long Island’s K-98.3FM breakfast show in the USA have publicly apologised for the hoax that sent social media into a spin last week where they shared a homophobic RSVP response to two gay dads who where throwing a birthday party for their 7-year-old daughter.

The note read: “Tommy will NOT attend. I do not believe in what you do and will not subject my innocent son to your ‘lifestyle.’ I’m sorry Sophia has to grow up this way.”

The original story that was posted on the Star Observer website and social media pages received numerous comments of disgust, with many sending their sympathies to the gay dads, their daughter and the son of the alleged homophobic mother.

On the radio station’s social media sites, there has also been negative backlash for the fabrication of a story that went viral.

In a message posted on the station’s website, hosts Steve and Leeana stated:

“Dear K-98.3 Listeners,

On Wednesday, we told you the story of Sophia’s birthday party, and one parent’s objection to the same-sex household of Sophia’s parents.  We also posted the invitation on our Facebook page, and invited comments from our followers.

This story was, in fact, totally fictitious, and created by the two of us.  This was done without the knowledge of K-98.3 management or ownership.

We were attempting to spur a healthy discourse on a highly passionate topic, but we made a mistake by misleading our listeners into thinking that this specific situation actually existed.

We are very sorry that we perpetuated this falsehood, even after it was clear that it had taken on a ‘life of its own.’  We deeply apologize for violating your trust, and we will work hard to regain that trust.

Sincerely, 

Steve & Leeana”

Have your say. What do you think of the hoax and the apology?