'Not okay' - J.K. Rowling posts Manx flag on Twitter apparently mocking LGBT+ community 

Minister hits out at Harry Potter author

The author of the Harry Potter books is facing backlash online after posting a picture of the Manx flag in a Twitter thread apparently mocking members of the LGBTQ+ community.

J.K Rowling, who's previously been criticised for her views, particularly regarding transgender people, posted the image, describing it as a 'thirder' flag.

I’m not angry, Julie, just deeply disappointed. Should you decide to reflect, learn and do better, you can start by displaying the thirder flag on all future tweets. pic.twitter.com/qY6JR9Bsgl

— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) July 3, 2022

DEFA Minister, and Coordinator of Isle of Pride, Clare Barber responded to the author, saying the Isle of Man 'stands firmly with all marginalised communities and celebrate our trans community.'

'Using our flag in this debate' she wrote 'is not ok.'

This year we celebrate our 2nd @isleofpride festival and mark 30 years since the decriminalisation of homosexual acts; we stand firm with all marginalised communities and celebrate our trans community and those with mental illness. Using our flag in this debate is not ok 🇮🇲🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈

— Clare Barber MHK (@ClareBarberMHK) July 4, 2022