A statement that questioned if July Fourth celebrations were appropriate in the wake of "division, hate and unrest" across the country has resulted in cheers, backlash and an apology from the city ofOrlando, Florida.
A July 1 email newsletter promoted the city's annual "Fireworks at the Fountain" event, which is scheduled to begin at 4 pm
We can't blame people who don't want to celebrate our nation right now Why would you want to have a party when there is so much hate and division?
Some people, including local residents, conservative politicians and the press secretary for the governor, took to social media to complain about the email's tone.
A day later, officials apologized for the statement on behalf of the city on social media.
The statement said that the city regretted the negative impact their words had on the community. These words were not intended to offend some of our residents. The men and women who have fought and continue to fight for those in this country are appreciated by us. We celebrate the 4th of July to express our gratitude and honor the country we live in.
The apology wasn't enough to quiet the critics.
One Facebook user said that they were very sad that this level of disrespect for our country had become a problem in the city. It's very sad and embarrassing for our city.
"Our independence allows us to disagree, voice our opinions, and encourage our government to be of the people, by the people, and for the people," wrote another. There is a lot to be happy about.
Some people said the initial statement was honest and humorous, pointing to the Supreme Court's recent overruling of Wade as an example of the country's division. A recent NPR/PBS/Marist poll shows that a majority of Americans don't like the high court's decision.
Under the city's apology, a Facebook user commented, "You said what a lot of us are thinking." You should be applauded for raising what so many of us are feeling.
One person wrote that he thought the message was on point. The government was acknowledging the division and unrest that I feel every day. I don't have a flag on my house.
What critics have dubbed Florida's "Don't Say Gay" law, which took effect Friday and prohibits "instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity" in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students.
According to supporters of the law, it only applies to children in kindergarten through third grade and that it is intended to give parents more control over their young children's education.
More than half of US voters support banning the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity from kindergarten through third grade.
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