The ongoing cultural debate between JK Rowling and transgender activists has flared up again — this time over Glamour Magazine’s decision to name nine transgender women as its “Women of the Year.”
The celebrated Harry Potter author didn’t hold back her criticism online, accusing the magazine of “telling girls that men are better women than they are.”
Rowling, 60, shared her views on social media shortly after Glamour unveiled the honorees, calling the event — which aimed to celebrate trailblazing women — another example of how mainstream outlets “undermine” womanhood.
Rowling Takes Aim at Glamour’s Celebratory Cover
In a post that quickly went viral, Rowling shared a picture of Glamour’s cover featuring the nine honorees, writing:
“I grew up in an era when mainstream women’s magazines told girls they needed to be thinner and prettier.
Now mainstream women’s magazines tell girls that men are better women than they are.”
Her remarks came after Glamour released its annual “Women of the Year” issue, spotlighting what it called “the world’s most extraordinary women — trailblazers, visionaries, and champions.”
But the author’s comments reignited fierce debate over the inclusion of transgender women in female-focused spaces.
The Trans Activists Honored by Glamour
This year’s honorees include a range of well-known names within the LGBTQ+ community — from models and authors to campaigners and entertainers.
Among them is Munroe Bergdorf, a British activist and model who has long been outspoken on racial and gender issues.
Bergdorf was previously named the UK’s first “Champion” for UN Women UK and made history as L’Oréal’s first trans model, though she was later dismissed for controversial comments about race in 2017.
Other honorees include Shon Faye, author of The Transgender Issue; Bel Priestly, an actress from Netflix’s Heartstopper; Mya Mehmi, a London-based DJ; and Maxine Heron and Dani St James, who both work for the trans rights charity Not A Phase.
Rounding out the list are models Ceval Omar, Taira, and Munya.
The Message Behind “Protect the Dolls”
On the cover, all nine honorees are pictured wearing a T-shirt reading “Protect the Dolls,” a slogan commonly used within queer communities to refer affectionately to transgender women.
The shirt, designed by American fashion creator Conner Ives, has also been worn by stars like Pedro Pascal and Tilda Swinton.
Proceeds from the shirt go toward Trans Lifeline, a nonprofit supporting transgender people in crisis.
During the awards ceremony, Dani St James — founder of Not A Phase — took to the stage with a message of empowerment.
“We are so grateful for your protection,” she said. “But please let that enthusiasm turn into action.
Pay the dolls. Employ the dolls. Love the dolls out loud.”
Her call to action was met with applause, with St James emphasizing that real progress comes from inclusion and opportunity, not just symbolic gestures.
Munroe Bergdorf Delivers a Powerful Speech
Munroe Bergdorf used the platform to deliver one of the evening’s most talked-about speeches, describing the current social climate as “deeply disturbing.”
“It can no longer be said that we’re descending into fascism — fascism is here,” she told the audience.
“It’s up to all of us to keep each other safe — to protect the dolls, but also to protect each other.”
Bergdorf, who was appointed UN Women UK Champion in 2023, also reflected on her continued activism, saying she hopes her work helps people “see diversity not as a threat but as strength.”
Inside the Lives of the Honorees
Bel Priestly: From TikTok to Netflix Stardom
At just 22, Bel Priestly has amassed over 1.4 million followers on TikTok and landed her first major acting role as Naomi Russell in Heartstopper.
She’s spoken openly about the rise in online hate, saying that transphobia has “become more accepted” in public discourse and urging people to show empathy rather than hostility.
Maxine Heron: Championing Trans Lives Through Charity
London-based activist Maxine Heron works as a communications officer for Not A Phase.
She admitted to Glamour that visibility sometimes comes with regret and hardship but added that being true to herself brings peace.
“When I go home, I’m at peace because I’m comfortable in my own body,” she said.
Dani St James: Building Safe Spaces and Sisterhood
Founder of Not A Phase, Dani St James, 33, has dedicated her work to improving the lives of transgender adults across the UK.
Her charity also runs Misfits, a self-defense and fitness initiative breaking down barriers between trans people and traditional gym spaces.
Taira: Redefining Beauty on the Runway
Taira, 29, a model from Hokkaido, Japan, has walked for fashion giants like Prada and Moschino and graced the covers of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
She urged people to understand that “Protect the Dolls” should not be misused to objectify trans women but to honor their identity and history.
Mya Mehmi: Making Nightlife More Inclusive
London-based DJ and musician Mya Mehmi, of Punjabi heritage, said her goal is to make nightlife safer for trans people.
Having performed at major festivals, she’s now pushing for better representation and healthcare access for trans women in creative industries.
Munya: From Zimbabwe to the British Fashion Scene
Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Hull, 25-year-old model Munya said her journey has been one of overcoming adversity — from racism to domestic abuse.
Now a full-time model, she says fashion gives her a sense of freedom and expression that she once thought was impossible.
Ceval Omar: Changing Fashion and Giving Back
Somali-Norwegian model Ceval Omar, once a scout in Norway, now models for top brands like Charlotte Tilbury and British Vogue.
Beyond her modeling success, she works with the East African Foundation to provide essential resources — like clean water and electricity — to remote villages.
Shon Faye: Speaking Truth Through Writing
Author and journalist Shon Faye, 37, used her platform to warn about growing anti-trans sentiment in the UK.
“Right-wing politicians and pressure groups want to drive us out of public life,” she said, calling for greater protection and inclusion across workplaces, hospitals, and public spaces.
Glamour’s Response to the Controversy
In a statement, Glamour defended its choice to spotlight trans women, saying it wanted to honor those “empowering and uplifting their community” during a time of heightened hostility.
“As trans rights face increasing threat in the UK, Glamour honours nine of the community’s most ground-breaking voices,” the publication said.
The debate, however, shows no sign of slowing. While Glamour continues to champion inclusivity, Rowling’s comments remind everyone just how divided the conversation around gender identity has become — and how fiercely it continues to shape public discourse.