A Southern California LGBTQ+ advocacy group is urging a boycott of a new Harry Potter-themed train attraction, claiming that ticket sales ultimately benefit author J.K. Rowling. Her comments on transgender issues have been polarizing for years.
This call for a boycott coincides with the opening of “Harry Potter: Adventures on the Hogwarts Express” at the Southern California Railroad Museum in Perris, which is touted as the first of its kind in the U.S. It’s an interactive theatrical train ride, and, well, it’s gathering attention.
Ashley Williamson, the RISE Perris Pride Lead Director, expressed concerns in an interview, suggesting that purchasing tickets or Harry Potter merchandise indirectly supports Rowling. She pointed out that Rowling’s statements on transgender women and her backing of certain groups have drawn considerable criticism.
“What’s really frightening is its impact, which is already being felt in the United States,” Williamson remarked. “Transgender genocide is happening. It’s very serious.” She identifies as non-binary and mentioned that in Perris, LGBTQ individuals often endure hostility and harassment, including slurs and vandalism.
Williamson believes encouraging people to abstain from buying Harry Potter-related items is perhaps the best way to support their community.
This boycott effort highlights Rowling’s controversial position in the entertainment industry, where she’s been accused of promoting anti-trans views. Critics assert that her online posts and support for certain groups hinder transgender women’s rights. Rowling has pushed back against these claims, denying any anti-trans stance while asserting her support for women’s rights.
Despite the surrounding criticism, those behind the train experience emphasize that it’s meant to celebrate the Harry Potter series and its vast fanbase. Kathleen Wallis from Warner Bros. Discovery stated their goal is to create new experiences for longtime fans, expressing admiration for the story and its impact.
Jarrett Ireland, vice president of Rail Events, the attraction’s operator, mentioned their inviting atmosphere for all visitors, adding an inclusive tone to the experience.
The hour-long ride, which debuted this summer, transformed the Perris Art Museum into a fictional platform 9¾. Riders board a moving train where actors portray students from different Hogwarts houses.
The experience includes live performances, audience engagement, singalongs, spell-chanting, and encounters with magical creatures. Ticket prices range from about $72 to $93 per person.
During the ride, attendees join Hogwarts students in tackling various challenges involving creatures like hippogriffs and dementors. The overarching story revolves around unity among the house members, showcasing their distinctive traits.
The attraction employs theatrical effects to create the feel of traveling through a magical realm, using video screens and special lighting to enhance the illusion.
It culminates as passengers unite to cast the spell “Expecto Patronum” in a dramatic encounter with Dementors.
After the ride, visitors can explore a Hogsmeade-themed area, offering food and merchandise tied to the attraction.
The experience has already drawn thousands of fans, with reports noting nearly 11,000 tickets sold in advance by late July.
The Perris attraction will run until September 27, with plans to announce further stops across North America and even consider expanding to the UK in the future.
