Duchess Bake Shop has decided to change the theme of its annual gingerbread house that attracts Edmontonians to admire the massive and detailed structure after public push back. The bakery announced that the gingerbread house would be Harry Potter-themed, ahead of the television adaptation coming out on HBO over the holidays. But some of the public questioned the theme, considering the views about transgender people expressed by J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter books. “We didn’t stop to consider the impact of this association on the trans community or fully understand the harm connected to the author’s views and actions,” said a statement from the bakery Saturday. “Rowling’s influence has amplified anti-trans rhetoric globally, contributing to challenges around legal recognition and access to public spaces.” Duchess is now in the process of building a festive holiday village out of gingerbread and is partnering with the Pride Centre of Edmonton. All donations raised will go to the organization, with Duchess matching the funds. “Our gingerbread house has always been about inspiring and bringing the Edmonton community together through a wonderful holiday tradition, while creating an opportunity to give back to the community we are proud to be a part of … I am truly sorry for those we have hurt and disappointed.” People can donate by purchasing a raffle ticket to enter a draw for the demolition of the gingerbread house after the holidays. More details on when the gingerbread house will be unveiled are expected soon. Past year’s themes have been Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
