London Oxford Street Christmas lights spark trans rights petition

A petition launched by the Good Law Project is calling for the cancellation of Harry Potter-themed Christmas lights on London’s Oxford Street. The decorations, which promote the upcoming HBO Harry Potter television series, have drawn opposition from trans activists who argue the display makes members of the LGBTQ+ community feel unwelcome.

The petition targets London Mayor Sadiq Khan, urging him to ‘pull the plug on transphobia’ due to the involvement of author J.K. Rowling, whose gender-critical views are a point of contention. Activists claim that the franchise's success indirectly supports anti-trans movements.

In response to the controversy, the Mayor’s office stated that he is not responsible for the Oxford Street decorations, noting they are organized by the New West End Company. A spokesperson for City Hall emphasized that the Mayor remains a supporter of London’s diverse communities, including trans and non-binary residents. The New West End Company intends to proceed with the planned lighting display.