Trans writer Paris Lees praised for inviting JK Rowling to lunch to discuss her views

‘I would be very happy to introduce her to some young trans people and their families in a friendly, supportive, empathic setting,’ says Paris Lees

(Getty Images)

A transgender writer has invited JK Rowling to lunch in order to introduce her to some young trans people.

On Wednesday, the Harry Potter author published an open letter on her website, in which she defended her comments about transgender people, and also revealed she is a domestic abuse and sexual assault survivor.

The Harry Potter author received a widespread backlash over the weekend after taking issue with a headline about “people who menstruate” and tweets that were accused of transphobia.

Many actors who have starred in film adaptations of Rowling’s books, including Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, have since spoken out in support of transgender people.

On Wednesday evening, writer Paris Lees tweeted that she would like to invite Rowling over for lunch “when lockdown is over”.

“I’ve met with 100s of media professionals via @AllAboutTrans and would be very happy to introduce her to some young trans people and their families in a friendly, supportive, empathic setting,” she said.

Lees’ tweet has received more than 1,600 likes and thousands of praiseworthy comments.

“That’s the most helpful intervention I’ve read in the last 48 hours, Paris,” replied one person.

Another added: “That is really kind of you Paris and amazing to offer that opportunity, you’re brilliant x”.

Since Rowling’s initial tweet, several brands have publicly spoken about her comments.

For example, on Wednesday, the Body Shop tweeted a photo of a red canvas bag reading: “It’s bloody natural. #DropThePWord to end period shame” with the caption: “Hey @JK_Rowling here’s something we made earlier, we thought you might like one! We’ve also popped in a vegan bath bomb and a copy of Trans Rights by @paisleycurrah for you to read in the bath!”

While The Body Shop’s tweet appeared to be in support of transgender rights, the statement was met with criticism on social media as many accused the company of “bullying” Rowling.

Others suggested the company was making light of Rowling’s admission that she is a survivor of abuse and sexual assault, which she described in her open letter.

The Independent has contacted The Body Shop for comment.