Trans rights protesters appear at the new Harry Potter store

As the Harry Potter franchise prepares for another holiday shopping season ahead of HBO's new series, protesters appeared at the store's grand opening on London's Oxford Street. Around a dozen individuals gathered in front of the flagship store, holding signs and using bullhorns to support the trans community. They chanted slogans like "Trans rights are human rights" and "When trans are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back."

One protester, speaking to The Standard, politely but firmly addressed the families waiting in line. The unnamed protester questioned whether families should read Harry Potter to their children and then bring them to the store. "You should not be reading Harry Potter to your children and then bringing them to this store," they said.

"We will be here protesting all day. We're sorry for the noise but unfortunately kids are dying. Trans kids are killing themselves. Trans kids are homeless and we need to think about those children. Go home, do something better with your time."

The protesters were met with a nearly one-to-one police presence and remained peaceful throughout their demonstration. Families continued to enter the store to purchase Harry Potter merchandise, such as Hogwarts house scarves. A store spokesperson responded with corporate diplomacy, stating that they support everyone's right to express personal viewpoints peacefully and look forward to a magical day.

The timing of the protests is significant, as HBO's new Harry Potter series premieres on Christmas Day. This has heightened scrutiny of those involved in the franchise, both those who have chosen to work on Rowling's latest project and those who support it with their money. The debate over whether to support the work of a controversial figure who uses profits from their work to fund a hate campaign against vulnerable communities intensifies.

Similar protests have occurred at other Harry Potter-related events, such as the West End gala performance of the play Harry Potter And The Cursed Child and the release of the video game Hogwarts Legacy. Many actors involved in the HBO series have also had to clarify their stance on Rowling's views and whether they are comfortable supporting her financially.