The City of Houston is facing backlash after it called Good Friday and Easter Sunday “Spring holiday weekend.”
Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX) called out the post, stating, “Today is Good Friday. Sunday is Easter. It isn’t a ‘Spring holiday weekend.’ It’s a time when Christians across the nation reflect on the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The City of Houston should be ashamed.”
Despite failing to recognize Easter, the city celebrated the Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr, as well as the Jewish Passover.
“Wishing those who celebrate, a joyful and blessed Eid al‑Fitr,” the mayor’s office said in March. “May this occasion bring peace, prosperity, and renewed gratitude.”
For Passover, the mayor’s office wrote, “On this second night of Passover, Mayor Whitmire wishes a meaningful and peaceful Passover to all those who celebrate. May this season of reflection and renewal bring strength, gratitude, and time well spent with family and friends.”
While Houston fails to recognize Good Friday and Easter Sunday, a survey from WalletHub listed the top U.S. cities to celebrate the weekend. “The best cities for Easter cater to the religious nature of the holiday by offering plenty of opportunities for Christians to attend services, and they also provide the resources for people to have a great time with their family regardless of religious affiliation,” said Chip Lupo, an analyst with WalletHub. “That means lots of places to get some sweet treats or dine out, as well as good weather conditions and nice open spaces for Easter egg hunts.”
The cities listed in the survey included Birmingham, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Buffalo, Orlando, Atlanta, El Paso, St. Louis, and Alburqurque, among others.
