Grinch Law Project

The Good Law Project has found a new front in the struggle for justice: Christmas lights.

In an email campaign titled Pull the Plug on Transphobia, GLP claims that festive decorations inspired by JK Rowling’s fictional wizarding world will not make trans people feel ‘Christmassy, welcome, or safe’.

GLP appears to fear that London Mayor Sadiq Khan is falling under the influence of the Dark Lord. It notes that Khan, who has flown the trans flag from City Hall and declared himself a ‘visible and vocal ally of trans Londoners’, once told trans people: ‘This city is yours too.’ If he really means it, the group says, he will ‘stand with the trans community, and against hate’ by removing the display.

At the time of writing, fewer than 4,000 people had signed, suggesting twinkling transphobia has yet to ignite public outrage.

GLP also hints that the display will bolster JK Rowling’s finances, noting her pledge to use proceeds from the forthcoming Harry Potter television series to support groups campaigning for women’s rights.

The organisation’s founder, tax barrister Jolyon Maugham, has form when it comes to picking fights with Rowling. Earlier this year, after accusing her of being a bigot waging war on trans people, he was briskly sent back to the cupboard under the stairs.

Rowling accused him of becoming “testerical” and referred to his reputation for pursuing unsuccessful crowdfunded cases. She added:

“If we ever end up facing each other in court, my only qualm will be that it seems such a huge waste of taxpayers’ money to have to construct a courtroom large enough to accommodate your ego.”

GLP’s sign-up page says it will send supporters’ emails to Khan, collect their information under its privacy policy and may use it to “further develop the campaign”. 

Meanwhile, Maugham, the Patron Saint of Lost Cases, seems ever more invested in magical thinking; turning grievance into gold.