By Anna Genna
Sunday, March 31, 2024 happened to be both Easter and Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV), and people got mad to say the least. Criticism has mostly come from Christians, claiming that the coinciding of the days is an attack on religion. Accusations have been particularly directed at President Biden, for putting out two statements, one supporting each day.
A bit of history to start: TDOV began informally in 2009 and has been occurring since, on March 31, as a way to celebrate, recognize, and support the trans community. Biden was the first president to formally acknowledge this day in 2021, and has annually recognized the day since.
Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, with the first recorded celebration of Easter being in the 2nd century. It is observed the Sunday after the first full moon in spring, which begins on March 21.
These two holidays coinciding with one another is simply up to chance. The next time Easter will be celebrated on March 31 will be in 2086. Not to mention that having two holidays on the same day is not uncommon; March 31 is also Cesar Chavez Day, meaning that TDOV and Cesar Chavez Day will always be on the same day. That does not invalidate the struggles of trans people in the US, nor the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez. It also does not invalidate the celebration of Jesus Christ’s rebirth.
Now we can acknowledge that I am trans, and not Christian, so I have very little insight into one of these holidays, and quite a bit of knowledge for the other. Perhaps that is what is causing me to not understand why there is such outrage. March 31 was Easter and TDOV, not or. Assuming it must be ‘or’ only serves to hurt the community that is being pushed away, and cause much anger in the community that is pushing back. These days should not be spent with anger or hurt, but rather with joy and jubilation. We each have our days of celebration, and that should be respected, regardless of when they are. Not to mention the possible harm that is brought upon those who are a part of both communities. Both communities benefit from not being angry on their holidays, and we can foster much happier lives without unnecessary attacks on others.