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Emma Watson sparks controversy in 'Trans Rights are Human Rights' T-shirt

Months after flashing a temporary #TimesUp tattoo on Oscars night, Emma Watson is once again using her style to express her feminist views.

The actress and activist’s latest Instagram post shows her throwing her support behind the trans community as she strikes a defiant pose in a T-shirt with the slogan “Trans Rights are Human Rights.”

Watson’s message appears to be in response to the U.K. government’s discussion of the Gender Recognition Act (GRA) this week. As the LGBTQ organization Stonewall — which the Harry Potter star tagged in her post — notes, trans activists are calling for the GRA to be reformed so that it recognizes nonbinary identities and makes it easier to legally self-determine gender for trans folks of all ages, including an end to requiring that trans statuses be dependent upon medical diagnosis or approval.

But these trans-friendly reforms have received pushback from some women’s rights activists, who argue that they would violate the rights and protections they have fought to obtain for themselves. The reforms have also been opposed by social conservatives who balk at advancing LGBTQ rights.

Watson’s post makes it clear that she’s both a feminist and a trans ally. Now, plenty of people are responding — with both praise and anger.

Many applauded the Beauty and the Beast actress for taking a stand.

Watson’s shirt has also sparked transphobic comments as well as criticism from those who accuse her of putting trans organizations before feminism.

Well, Hermione never did back down from a debate…

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