Criticism of JK Rowling by Stephen Fry is commendable, but it leaves a sense of dissatisfaction

Always glad to see voices being heard, particularly when it comes to standing up against harmful and divisive attitudes. That's why Sir Stephen Fry's recent comments about JK Rowling's demonization of trans individuals are such a breath of fresh air.

Fry, a national treasure who narrated all seven of Rowling's Harry Potter audiobooks, claimed that they no longer have regular dinners together due to her views on trans people being "strange."

According to Fry, Rowling has been "mocking" the LGBT community, making inflammatory and distressing statements, and has become a "lost cause" radicalized by Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists.

For trans individuals like me, Rowling's views aren't just a bit off the mark. They are harmful and dangerous, fuelling transphobia and bigotry that's becoming increasingly prevalent across the UK.

Fry's comments may have come as a relief, but it's a shame that it took him this long to speak out. For years, the trans community has been raising the alarm about transphobia spreading through parts of British media and politics, with little acknowledgement or support from those in positions of influence.

Let's face it, Rowling's transphobic views are no secret. From dismissing trans women as "men in dresses" to refusing to support trans rights, it's clear that her journey has been a negative one.

Just recently, Rowling celebrated the Supreme Court's ruling on the definition of sex as it relates to the Equality Act with a picture from her yacht. Fry called this move "crowing." He added that he was "angry" about the situation.

others in the trans community, this isn't a polite disagreement – it's about dog-whistles, disinformation, and hateful rhetoric. And it's working, with trans people more vilified than ever before.

When Fry refused to hold his friend JK Rowling to account in the past, I was disappointed. But now that he's finally spoken up, I can't help but feel a sense of relief.

Yes, Fry's late entry into the discussion is frustrating. Yet, his decision to stand up and speak out should give hope for others who may be hesitant or scared to do the same. It's never too late to take a stand and support the trans community.

So, while I appreciate Fry's newfound voice, I can't help but wonder where those allies who stood with us from the start are? People like Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, and Rupert Grint didn't wait for things to get this bad to show their solidarity with trans people.

Unfortunately, some actors are still signing up for roles in the new Harry Potter series, seemingly unfazed by Rowling's rhetoric. Personally, I'd rather not throw a vulnerable group of people under the Knight Bus for a role, no matter how successful it might be. Equality is always more important than success.

The trans community needs more allies, more courage, and more people to find their voices. With that, we can change the narrative and move forward towards a more inclusive society.

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Criticism of JK Rowling by Stephen Fry is commendable, but it leaves a sense of dissatisfaction