"Transgender Day of Visibility is a celebration of the courage and resilience of transgender, nonbinary and gender non-confirming persons who exist in every country and culture around the world," Blinken stated on Sunday. He further emphasized the United States' recognition of the progress made by transgender individuals in the global fight for equality, and reaffirmed the nation's commitment to supporting the equality, inclusion, and full recognition of their human rights.
This statement follows a similar proclamation made by President Biden on Friday, which designated Sunday as a day to "honor the extraordinary courage and contributions of transgender Americans." This announcement, however, has drawn criticism from conservatives on social media, who have questioned the timing of the celebration, given that it coincides with Easter Sunday, a significant day in the Christian calendar.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his disapproval, stating, "The Biden White House has betrayed the central tenet of Easter — which is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 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."
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Caitlyn Jenner, former Olympic gold medalist, echoed this sentiment, expressing her disgust at the declaration of Easter Sunday as Transgender Day of Visibility. "The only thing you should be declaring on this day is ‘HE is Risen’," she said.
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The Biden administration's decision also drew criticism from former President Trump's camp. Karoline Leavitt, Trump's national press secretary, called on Biden to issue an apology for the statement. "We call on Joe Biden's failing campaign and the White House to issue an apology to the millions of Catholics and Christians across America who believe (Sunday) is for one celebration only — the resurrection of Jesus Christ," Leavitt stated.
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In his statement, Blinken acknowledged the challenges faced by transgender individuals worldwide, including violence, suppression, and infringements on their human rights. He asserted the United States' commitment to advocating for a world where transgender individuals can live safely and openly.
In response to the backlash, the White House issued a statement on Saturday, arguing that Transgender Day of Visibility always falls on March 31, while Easter does not have a fixed date. The statement read, "As a Christian who celebrates Easter with family, President Biden stands for bringing people together and upholding the dignity and freedoms of every American."
The White House further criticized politicians for using divisive and hateful rhetoric, stating, "President Biden will never abuse his faith for political purposes or for profit."
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