12, Rowling shared an article from The Times U.K. Rowling began sharing her controversial views on the trans community in June 2020. “We cannot continue to call ourselves quidditch and be associated with J.K Rowling while she continues to make damaging and hateful comments against the many transgender athletes, staff and volunteers who call this sporting community home.” Since our inception the inclusion of all persons, regardless of race, sex, gender identity, or background has been a cornerstone of our sport,” said a statement from U.K. “Distancing ourselves from J.K Rowling will cement the sport and community as the inclusive space it already is. Quidditch noted that the sport is growing beyond Harry Potter and the wider franchise, and a name change would allow for growth, sponsorship and expansion.
Both organizations feel it is imperative to live up to this reputation in all aspects of their operations and believe this move is a step in that direction.” “Our sport has developed a reputation as one of the most progressive sports in the world on gender equality and inclusivity, in part thanks to its gender maximum rule, which stipulates that a team may not have more than four players of the same gender on the field at a time. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter book series, who has increasingly come under scrutiny for her anti-trans positions in recent years,” the statement added. “Additionally, the leagues are hoping a name change can help them continue to distance themselves from the works of J.K. Quidditch and Major League Quidditch said in a joint statement. Both leagues expect that this name change will allow for new and exciting developments for our players, fans and volunteers as the sport continues to grow,” U.S. “As the game has grown, the name ‘quidditch,’ which is trademarked by Warner Bros., has limited the sport’s expansion, including but not limited to sponsorship and broadcast opportunities.