Scotland Police Confirm J.K. Rowling Did Not Break Law with Tweets Criticizing Hate Speech Legislation
Scotland police confirmed on Tuesday, April 2, that J.K. Rowling did not break the law with her tweets criticizing the new hate speech legislation in Scotland. The law, which came into effect on Monday, makes it illegal to stir up hatred based on characteristics such as age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and transgender identity.
The author of the “Harry Potter” series has been vocal in her opposition to the law, along with other critics who believe it could silence “gender-critical” feminists. Rowling’s tweets referred to some prominent trans women as men, which could potentially be considered an offense under the new legislation.
Despite receiving complaints, the police determined that Rowling’s comments did not violate the law and no further action will be taken. Meanwhile, Scotland’s government defends the Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act as a tool to combat hatred and abuse, while critics argue it will have a chilling effect on free speech.
