J. K. Rowling Defends Anti-Trans Comments Made by Others

Author J. K. Rowling tweeted her support for a UK woman who was fired from her job for repeatedly making anti-trans comments, some of which prompted her co-workers to complain.

The famed writer of the Harry Potter series was trending on Twitter Thursday for tweeting out her support of Maya Forstater, using the hashtag #IStandWithMaya.
 

Forstater, a researcher at a London thinktank, was fired from her job last year after making transphobic comments. She filed a discrimination lawsuit and ultimately was ruled against by an employment tribune who said her beliefs are “not a philosophical belief protected” under the British law. 

She tweeted out her opinion in several tweets saying in part, “It is impossible to change sex. These were until very recently understood as basic facts of life.”

Rowling inserted herself into the debate, with what Vox described as “a shocking dismissal of transgender identity.” LGBTQ+ fans and allies tweeted their disappointment at the author’s stance, as well as support for the trans community. Some fans pointed out that her historic series taught a generation of readers to embrace differences, rather than discriminate against them. 

LGBTQ+ organization, GLAAD, tweeted to Rowling, saying she has aligned herself with “anti-science ideology.” 

According to Variety, GLAAD reached out to Rowling’s PR team to facilitate an off-the-record discussion, to which they declined.

Trans youth are particularly at risk of suicide, given their extreme marginalization in society. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741. And learn how you can support trans equality here.