Outing Dumbeldore sparks fierce conflict

J.K. Rowling, well-known author of the popular Harry Potter series, stated recently that one of her star characters, Albus Dumbeldore, Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, was gay. This announcement has created much furor and criticism amongst both Harry Potter fans and the general public, as many now want the book banned. The Harry Potter series has been controversial having previously been criticized and an attempt made to ban it, shortly after the first book in the series was published. At that time, some critics felt that children would be persuaded to practice witchcraft after reading the books. This current attempt to ban the Harry Potter series is being led largely by religious groups and parents who are against books which promote, condone or exhibit themes involving homosexuality.

I disagree with this ban attempt. Until J.K. Rowling made this announcement, no one would have know that Dumbeldore was gay just from reading the Harry Potter books. There were no blatant indicators or inferences to this effect in any of the Harry Potter books. As well, I don't agreed with or believe in discrimination of any sort and most certainly not when the grounds for the discrimination are so weak. The Harry Potter series of books is tremendously popular with people of all ages and the entertainment they have provided for many is wonderful. Even is the homosexuality content of the book was obvious (which it is not in these books), there are many people who have no problem with that. If some parents do not want their children to read the Harry Potter books then that is up to them and it should be their responsibility to ensure they keep the books from their children. The rest of the world should not be denied these entertaining books because of a few radical critics. It's as simple as that.