Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling is celebrating the recent ruling by the United Kingdom’s supreme court that determined transgender women are not legally women. Rowling took to social media to share her joy, posting pictures of champagne glasses and expressing her support for the women who championed the case.
In a post, Rowling wrote, “Think I might be having a cigar later,” indicating her excitement over the court’s decision. She also praised the three Scottish women who fought tirelessly to bring the case to the Supreme Court and ultimately secure a victory. Rowling commended their efforts, stating, “It took three extraordinary, tenacious Scottish women with an army behind them to get this case heard by the Supreme Court, and in winning, they’ve protected the rights of women and girls across the UK. I’m so proud to know you.”
The ruling clarified that the terms “woman” and “sex” as outlined in the 2010 Equality Act specifically refer to biological women and biological sex, rather than a social construct of gender. This decision was a result of a case brought forward by a group of Scottish activists who challenged the requirements for the country’s parliament, which initially allowed transgender women with legal certificates identifying them as women to qualify as part of the 50% female representation requirement.
Rowling has been vocal in her opposition to treating transgender women as women, citing concerns about the impact on women’s rights and gay rights. She believes that the movement infringes on these rights and has been a staunch advocate for maintaining the distinction between biological sex and gender identity.
