TL;DR
- A UK bookshop invites customers to vandalise Harry Potter books for trans healthcare.
- The initiative costs just 25p per book.
- All proceeds support local trans individuals’ healthcare costs.
- The book will be auctioned as an art piece.
- Online donations will also be accepted.
In a bold move that’s stirring up both controversy and support, a trans-owned bookshop in Leeds is inviting customers to unleash their inner artist by vandalising copies of Harry Potter. Yes, you heard that right! The Bookish Type, the only trans woman-owned bookshop in England, is turning the beloved yet contentious franchise into a canvas for change, all for a good cause.
For just 25p, patrons can grab a pen and start defacing those iconic pages, with all proceeds going directly to support gender-affirming healthcare for local trans individuals. The initiative was born out of a desire to create a fun and cathartic way to raise funds. “We came up with this idea a few weeks ago as a silly and cathartic way to raise money for five local trans people,” the bookshop stated.
Originally planned for their second-hand Sunday event, which typically features a sale of pre-loved books, the response was so enthusiastic that they decided to kick it off early. “People love it!” they exclaimed. And who wouldn’t? It’s not every day you can take a marker to a book that has sparked so much debate over the years.
Once the book is filled with doodles, messages, and who knows what else, it will be auctioned off as a unique piece of trans community art. The Bookish Type is also setting up an online donation page, where supporters can contribute and receive their own personalized defaced page in return. Talk about a win-win!
The fundraiser comes at a time when the Harry Potter franchise is facing its own set of challenges, especially after JK Rowling’s controversial views on gender issues. Many fans have found it hard to separate the magic from the author’s opinions, leading to a mixed reception of the recent HBO reboot trailer. “What’s the f****** point of this? Everything is the exact same as the movies, just with different actors and none of the charm,” one critic lamented.
But at The Bookish Type, they’re flipping the narrative. Instead of letting the franchise’s association with transphobia dim their spirits, they’re transforming it into a platform for activism and support. This initiative not only raises funds but also highlights the importance of community solidarity in the face of adversity.
So, if you’re in Leeds and looking for a way to make a difference while having a little fun, head over to The Bookish Type. Grab a pen, let your creativity flow, and help support trans healthcare in the process. Who knew vandalism could be so charitable?
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