White House Responds to Backlash Over “Transgender Day of Visibility” Proclamation
In the face of significant criticism for designating March 31 as “Transgender Day of Visibility,” coinciding with Easter Sunday this year, the White House has defended President Biden's proclamation.
White House spokesperson Andrew Bates emphasized the president's commitment to unity and respect for all Americans, stating, “As a Christian who celebrates Easter with family, President Biden stands for bringing people together and upholding the dignity and freedoms of every American.”
Bates condemned the negative reactions as divisive, reaffirming Biden's dedication to not exploit his faith for political or financial gain.
The choice of March 31, a date recognized globally since 2009 to celebrate the transgender community, has sparked controversy due to its overlap with Easter Sunday, a significant day for Christians commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The White House's statement highlighted the administration's intent to honor the bravery and contributions of transgender Americans, reinforcing a message of inclusion and support: “You are loved. You are heard. You are understood. You belong. You are America, and my entire Administration and I have your back.”
The announcement provoked sharp backlash from various quarters, including prominent Christians, politicians, and commentators. Former
President Trump demanded an apology to Christians and Catholics, while his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, criticized the proclamation as an attack on Christian faith.
House Speaker Mike Johnson and other figures accused the Biden administration of disrespecting Easter's religious significance and Christian traditions.
The Biden White House has betrayed the central tenet of Easter — which is the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) March 30, 2024
Banning sacred truth and tradition—while at the same time proclaiming Easter Sunday as “Transgender Day”—is outrageous and abhorrent. The American people are taking note. pic.twitter.com/ZCExyVkAVS
President Biden has declared tomorrow—Easter Sunday—as “Transgender Day of Visibility.” This once again shows how little respect President Biden and his administration have for God. On the most significant day of the Christian calendar, when the Church around the world celebrates…
— Franklin Graham (@Franklin_Graham) March 31, 2024
Responses also came from figures like Franklin Graham, who criticized the administration for disrespecting God, and Governors Tate Reeves and Kristi Noem, who viewed the declaration as an affront to Christian believers.
Joe Biden banned “religious themed” eggs at the White House’s Easter Egg design contest for kids, AND he announced that tomorrow is “National Transgender Visibility Day.”
— Kristi Noem (@KristiNoem) March 31, 2024
Did he forget that tomorrow is Easter, Resurrection Sunday?
Joe Biden and his White House have made it…
Additionally, former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and Caitlyn Jenner expressed dismay over the timing of the declaration. Amidst the controversy, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by the transgender community, calling for continued efforts towards equality and acceptance.
Joe Biden declaring the most holy day for Christians as “Transgender Visibility Day” is a slap in the face to every American, whatever their faith. Now the White House is banning any religious symbolism on Easter Eggs. We’re in the middle of a war in this country - and take it…
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) March 30, 2024
I am absolutely disgusted that Joe Biden has declared the most Holy of Holy days - a self proclaimed devout Catholic - as Transgender Day of Visibility. The only thing you should be declaring on this day is ‘HE is Risen’.
— Caitlyn Jenner (@Caitlyn_Jenner) March 30, 2024