Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) has made the decision to remove all references to author JK Rowling from its exhibitions following a member of staff branding her views on gender identity as super hateful. The move comes after a transgender museum employee wrote a blog post accusing Rowling of holding transphobic viewpoints.
As a result of what the blog post called Rowling’s super hateful and divisive views, the museum has removed any mention of the British author from its Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Magic exhibition and has also taken down her image from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. The decision was confirmed by the museum management, who stated that they strive to root themselves in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment while creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the arts and culture sector.
The blog post further explained that the museum curators decided to remove Rowling’s artifacts from the gallery to reduce her impact, describing it as a short-term solution while determining long-term practices. They expressed the intention of giving credit where it is due while acknowledging that Rowling’s problematic views warranted the removal of any mention or image of her from the exhibition.
Rowling has faced significant backlash since her comments on transgender issues came to light in 2020. During the height of the pandemic, she criticized the use of the term people who menstruate instead of women. Her controversial views on transgender people and gender identity sparked outrage among many, prompting widespread criticism, including from members of the Harry Potter cast.
In response to the controversy, actors associated with the Harry Potter franchise have publicly expressed their support for trans rights and distanced themselves from Rowling’s views. Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed the series’ protagonist, Harry Potter, issued a statement affirming that transgender women are women and emphasizing the importance of respecting transgender individuals. Other actors, including Evanna Lynch and Emma Watson, also expressed their support for the trans community.
While some actors have called for listening to Rowling’s views, acknowledging her past advocacy for vulnerable members of society, others believe that her remarks have caused harm and perpetuated marginalization. The decision by MoPOP to remove all references to Rowling reflects a significant response to the controversy surrounding her views, exemplifying the ongoing debate over separating an artist’s work from their personal beliefs.
Despite the commercial success and cultural impact of the Harry Potter franchise, Rowling’s contentious remarks have sparked division regarding her legacy and position within the literary and film world. This controversy highlights the complexities surrounding the roles of public figures and their responsibility when expressing opinions on sensitive and socially significant topics.
