Around 26 trans rights supporters protested outside the new Harry Potter store on London’s Oxford Street on Wednesday, November 4, the shop’s opening day, according to Variety. The demonstration followed author J.K. Rowling’s recent essay in which she said her views on trans rights had not changed.
Protesters held signs reading “protect trans lives” and “stop funding trans erasure,” and used megaphones to chant slogans including “trans rights are human rights.” They also urged fans waiting to enter the store to reconsider supporting the franchise. The line reportedly stretched around a nearby alley, while fans entered gradually and mostly ignored the demonstration.
A trans activist told Variety the group wanted trans people to make their voices heard, citing Rowling’s influence on the issue. The activist also said the turnout seemed smaller than it might have been when the franchise was at the height of its popularity.
A store spokesperson told Variety that Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street was pleased to welcome hundreds of fans and supported the right to express personal views peacefully. The shop is described as the UK’s largest official Harry Potter store, with 21,000 square feet of retail space across two floors.
Oxford Street is also due to host a Harry Potter-themed Christmas lights switch-on on Monday, November 9, in connection with the upcoming HBO Max television adaptation of the books.
Sources: Just Jared.