Our boy “the fake trans ally” is back! Everyone wave!
There was a subreddit that popped up on r/all for me recently called r/HarryPotteronHBO, a post about some characters that had just received their casting announcements for the new HBO Harry Potter show.
I was intrigued to see what the discourse on that sub would be regarding J.K. Rowling’s politics, and was confused when there wasn’t a single word about it…
…until I saw the subreddit rules.
One of their rules states that discussing her politics is not allowed, with the following explanation:
“To maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment, this subreddit does not allow discussions about J.K. Rowling’s political beliefs, public statements, or involvement in real-world political or social issues.
This community is for fans who want to discuss the upcoming Harry Potter series on HBO and the wider universe including the books and films. Conversations about the author’s personal views often lead to division, heated arguments, and discomfort for members who simply want to enjoy the world of Harry Potter.
We recognize that J.K. Rowling’s political commentary has affected how many people engage with the franchise, and understand that her activism has negatively impacted transgender individuals. However, this subreddit exists to focus on the fictional world and to give fans of all backgrounds a space to enjoy that world without being drawn into broader political debates.”
- Rule 10: Discussions Regarding JK Rowling's Political Views Are Not Allowed, r/HarryPotteronHBO
Obviously, this is a load of horseshit.
If you’re literally saying, “we recognize that we’re promoting the work of someone who is actively harming a marginalized community buuuuut…”, feel free to stop right there and begin reflecting on why you value your entertainment more than the lives of other people.
You know she’s harming trans people. You know she’s using her wealth to do it. You know promoting her new show will add to her wealth.
You know your promotion of the show is harming trans people.
The rule begins with, “To maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment…”
There is nothing inclusive about promoting content that harms marginalized communities, especially when you recognize that the content is doing harm. You don’t have the ability to say “I had no idea!”, you’re literally acknowledging that she’s doing harm.
Just say what you really mean. Just say that you don’t care about trans people.
I’m more mad that you’re pretending to be inclusive.
Listen, I loved Harry Potter growing up, I did! I was the same age as Harry as the books came out and it was touching and fun to read.
…but sometimes we need to decouple ourselves from things we used to enjoy when they cause harm.
In the case of Harry Potter, it’s not like there aren’t other fantasy book series out there, there’s plenty to choose from! If you’re still consuming Harry Potter content in 2025, just admit that you value your nostalgia more than other peoples’ lives.
At least you won’t be a liar.
