Vancouver Faces Backlash Over Controversial Harry Potter Event

Concerns have arisen regarding the approval of a new Harry Potter-themed attraction in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, prompting one Park Board commissioner to consider cancelling the contract. The event, titled Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience, has drawn ire from many within the LGBTQ2 community due to the controversial views of J.K. Rowling, the franchise’s creator.

Tom Digby, a commissioner on the Park Board, expressed his surprise at the backlash, stating, “I have learned a great deal in the last five days about the linkage of the Harry Potter franchise with J.K. Rowling… I was not aware of the reputational risk of bringing a Harry Potter-themed event to Vancouver at the time that I approved this in camera.” Digby noted that he does not represent the entire Park Board and is voicing his personal concerns regarding the event’s implications.

Rowling has faced increasing criticism over her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she described transgender hormone therapy as a “new kind of conversion therapy for young gay people.” The controversy surrounding her views intensified earlier this year when the U.K. Supreme Court ruled that a woman is defined by biological sex under equalities law, a decision Rowling celebrated on social media.

Since the announcement of the Harry Potter event, Digby reported receiving a “massive wave” of feedback from various communities. Many individuals have expressed that Rowling’s actions are particularly distressing for the gender-diverse and transgender communities. “It feels personally very attacked by actions that J.K. Rowling has taken,” he remarked.

Digby confirmed that Rowling will receive royalties from each ticket sold for the event, raising questions about the appropriateness of hosting it in Stanley Park. Tickets are priced at $84 for adults and $68 for children aged three to twelve, with family bundles available for $376. There are additional ticket options, including deluxe packages that offer priority access and exclusive merchandise.

In light of the backlash, Digby stated that the Park Board is considering the next steps, saying, “We’ve always been very proud of our diverse gender communities here in Vancouver.” He added that they may explore alternative solutions to address the concerns raised by the community, including the possibility of terminating the event entirely.

This event is set to replace Bright Nights at Stanley Park, as the Park Board confirmed that the miniature train will not operate this holiday season. Responses from community leaders highlight the complexity of the situation. Ky Sargeant, vice chair of the board at QMUNITY, a Vancouver-based non-profit focused on improving the lives of queer, trans, and Two-Spirit individuals, articulated the difficulty of understanding the decision to host a Harry Potter-themed event.

Sargeant noted, “I think we are really going through a period globally where it’s important to look for things that are local to us.” She emphasized the importance of supporting local organizations and talent, rather than events associated with controversial figures. While she acknowledges that the Harry Potter franchise is beloved by many, she believes it is crucial to assess whether aligning with Rowling’s brand aligns with the community’s values.

The discussion surrounding the Harry Potter event raises significant questions about the intersection of popular culture and social responsibility. As local leaders and communities evaluate the implications of hosting such an event, the outcome remains uncertain. The dialogue reflects a broader conversation about inclusivity and the values that shape community decisions in Vancouver and beyond.