Orlando mayor highlights ‘Transgender Day of Visibility’ on Good Friday ahead of Easter

ORLANDO, Fla. – A social media video posted by Orlando’s mayor is getting strong reactions from Christians on Good Friday.

The video from Mayor Buddy Dyer is highlighting “Transgender Day of Visibility,” which is Sunday March 31st of every calendar year. This year it happens to fall on the same day as Easter, a day when Christians are celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“Trans Day of Visibility is an opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring that Orlando is welcoming and inclusive to all. I want trans and non-binary people in our community to know that you are seen, heard, valued and respected,” Dyer said in the video.

Dyer’s post to the video recording said he was “ensuring that Orlando is welcoming and inclusive to all.”

“Our city will continue to stand against hate and support all residents who call Orlando home,” Dyer said in the post.

The message makes no reference to Good Friday or Easter in his post which was not well received by obviously offended Christians.

One woman replied, “Do you realize today is Good Friday and Easter is Sunday? This is so inappropriate and you need to resign.”

Another man posted an image of Christ on the cross and said, “Today is about Christ and you post this? Vote this devil worshipper out Orlando.”

A woman named Ginny said, “Your inclusivity is incredibly lacking as today is Good Friday. Why do people vote for the likes of this guy?”

According to GLAAD, Transgender Day of Visibility is a day to celebrate the lives and contributions of trans people, while also drawing attention to the poverty, discrimination and violence the community faces.

Mayoral elections in Orlando are non-partisan; however, Dyer is affiliated with Florida Democratic Party. He has served in his role since 2003. He is Orlando’s longest serving mayor.