Vancouver’s park board stirred controversy by hosting the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience in Stanley Park in November, prompting a motion to apologize to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Notably, author J.K. Rowling responded to the board’s decision, expressing indifference to being disavowed by the park board over her stance on transgender rights.
During a recent meeting, commissioners discussed their initial decision to bring the immersive Harry Potter program to Stanley Park without fully considering Rowling’s polarizing views. In response, Rowling emphasized her beliefs on biological sex and gender identity, expressing concern over the potential consequences of self-identification.
Rob Hadley, a member of Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, voiced concerns that endorsing an event related to Rowling’s work could harm the transgender community. Hadley emphasized the importance of not giving a platform to individuals who perpetuate negative narratives about transgender individuals.
The decision to feature Rowling’s work at a publicly funded event raised concerns about conflicting with Vancouver’s values of inclusion and respect. Representatives from organizations serving the 2SLGBTQ+ community expressed disappointment with the decision, citing the city’s previous efforts to promote inclusivity.
Commissioners acknowledged the misstep and directed the board to address the issue and find ways to make amends. A motion was passed affirming the park board’s commitment to transgender rights and disavowing Rowling’s political activities, ensuring that the installation would only be temporary.