A Crucified Easter Bunny on a Tax Form Draws Christian Fire

A New Yorker cover depicting a business-suited Easter Bunny crucified on a tax form has upset some Christians.

William Donohue, president of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, said Monday that the illustration is insulting to Christians and “particularly outrageous” during the week leading up to Easter Sunday.

The illustration by cartoonist Art Spiegelman on the Monday issue that went on sale this week shows a white rabbit in a suit and tie. He is in a crucifixion pose--arms extended, head sagging, legs together. His pockets are pulled inside out to signify his penury. The image is superimposed on one of Form 1040A. The title: “Theology of the Tax Cut.”

In a statement, Spiegelman said his drawing was inspired by the fact that April 15--the traditional tax deadline--falls this year on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter.

“The New Yorker could have engaged in legitimate criticism of those pundits who treat tax cuts reverentially without simultaneously offending Christians,” Donohue said in a statement.