More than 3,500 people have signed a petition calling on London Mayor Sadiq Khan to intervene over plans for a Harry Potter-themed Christmas lights display on Oxford Street, citing concerns about author JK Rowling's views on trans rights.
The display, which is intended to promote the forthcoming Harry Potter TV series, has prompted criticism from campaigners who argue that celebrating the franchise could generate further revenue for Rowling, who has become one of the most prominent supporters of gender-critical causes in recent years.
The petition, launched by supporters of the Good Law Project, attracted thousands of signatures within its first 24 hours online. Signatories argue that the installation would undermine efforts to make London feel welcoming and inclusive for trans people during the festive season.
Campaigners say the controversy surrounding the new television adaptation has already led to opposition from within the entertainment industry. They point to comments from Canadian director Ally Pankiw, known for her work on Black Mirror, who said she had turned down an opportunity to work on the series, stating: “It is simply this easy to say no to funding transphobia.”
The petition places particular pressure on Khan, who has previously described himself as an ally to the trans community and repeatedly said that trans rights are human rights. Supporters argue that allowing a Harry Potter-themed display in one of London's most prominent shopping destinations would be at odds with those commitments.
A spokesperson for Good Law Project said: “How can Mayor Khan tell trans Londoners that ‘this city is yours too’, whilst allowing a Christmas lights display to go ahead that will help fund anti-trans rights groups? The mayor must back up his words with action.”
The campaign group says the lights would send the 'wrong message' to trans people visiting or living in the capital during the Christmas period and is urging City Hall to use its influence to seek their removal.
At the time of writing, the petition had received more than 3,500 signatures, with organisers expecting that figure to rise in the coming days.
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