LGBTQ group calls for boycott of CA Harry Potter train attraction

A Southern California LGBTQ+ advocacy group is urging people to boycott a new Harry Potter-themed train attraction, arguing that ticket sales ultimately put money in the pocket of author J.K.Rowling, whose comments about transgender issues have sparked years of controversy.The backlash comes as the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris launches “Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Express Adventure,” an interactive theatrical train ride that organizers say is the first attraction of its kind in the US.Ashley Williamson, lead director of R.I.S.E.

Perris Pride, told the Los Angeles Times that buying tickets to the attraction — or purchasing other Harry Potter merchandise — helps support Rowling, who has faced years of criticism over comments about transgender women and her backing of organizations that oppose certain transgender rights policies.“What’s really terrifying is that influence.It’s already being felt in the United States,” Williamson told the Times.

“There’s a trans genocide happening.It’s very serious.”Williamson, who is nonbinary and identifies under the transgender umbrella, told the newspaper that openly LGBTQ people in Perris face hostility, saying they, their children and others in their community have experienced anti-LGBTQ harassment, including slurs and vandalism.They said urging people not to purchase Harry Potter-related products is “the most we feel that we can do for our community.”The boycott effort comes as Rowling remains one of the most controversial figures in entertainment because of her public statements about transgender issues.Critics have accused the bestselling author of promoting anti-trans views through posts on X and of using her wealth to support organizations that seek to restrict transgender women’s participation in certain areas of public life.

Rowling has rejected accusations that she is anti-trans, saying she supports women’s sex-based rights.Despite the criticism surrounding Rowling, executiv...