President Joe Biden is facing criticism from Donald Trump and religious conservatives for proclaiming March 31 — which corresponds with Easter Sunday this year — as “Transgender Day of Visibility.” The Democratic president issued the proclamation on Friday, calling on “all Americans to join us in lifting up the lives and voices of transgender people throughout our Nation and to work toward eliminating violence and discrimination based on gender identity.”

Outrage over the Easter Sunday Proclamation

In 2024, the March 31 designation coincides with Easter Sunday, one of Christianity’s holiest celebrations. Trump’s campaign accused Biden, a Roman Catholic, of being insensitive to religion, and fellow Republicans piled on.

“We call on Joe Biden’s failing campaign and White House to issue an apology to the millions of Catholics and Christians across America who believe tomorrow is for one celebration only — the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” said Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaign’s press secretary.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., highlighted the “Biden White House’s betrayal of the central tenet of Easter” and called the decision “outrageous and abhorrent.”

White House spokesperson Andrew Bates responded, stating that the Republicans criticizing Biden “are seeking to divide and weaken our country with cruel, hateful and dishonest rhetoric.”

“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 said. “President Biden will never abuse his faith for political purposes or for profit.”

Biden’s Stance and Controversy

Biden, who devoutly attends Mass and considers his Catholic upbringing a core part of his morality and identity, has taken political stances that have put him at odds with many conservative Christians.

His support for same-sex marriage and affirming the right to abortion for women have sparked controversy and disagreement among religious conservatives.