Dr. Rachel Levine’s confirmation is a historic moment in US politics

March 24, 2021 Queer Forty Staff 2 min read

Dr. Levine, confirmed by the US Senate to be U.S. Asst. Secretary for Health, is the first transgender Senate-confirmed appointee.

The LGBTQ Victory Institute – the only national organization dedicated to creating a pipeline of LGBTQ public leaders – applauded the historic confirmation of Dr. Rachel Levine to be the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health. Dr. Levine is now the first out transgender appointee ever confirmed by the U.S Senate and the highest-ranking out trans person to ever serve in the federal government.

Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Institute, said: “President Biden committed to appointing our nation’s most qualified leaders to tackle the pandemic and he delivered in choosing Dr. Levine. Yet the importance of this moment extends well-beyond the health of our nation alone.”

Dr. Rachel Levine is the first out transgender appointee confirmed by the U.S Senate and the highest-ranking out trans person to ever serve in the federal government. | Photo: Office of Governor Tom Wolf, CC BY 2.0

“At a time when hateful politicians are weaponizing trans lives for their own perceived political gain, Dr. Levine’s confirmation lends focus to the contributions trans people make to our nation and deflates absurd arguments calling for their exclusion. Her experience leading the health department in Pennsylvania will serve our country well and her unique perspective regarding healthcare for trans people will be invaluable,” said Parker.

Victory Institute’s Presidential Appointments Initiative, which includes a coalition of 30+ LGBTQ and allied organizations, urged the Biden administration to nominate Dr. Levine for a Senate-confirmed position because of her qualifications. The Initiative will put forward hundreds of exemplary LGBTQ candidates for positions throughout the administration and advocate for their consideration. It aims to help the Biden-Harris team create the most LGBTQ-inclusive administration in U.S. history.

About Victory Institute

The LGBTQ Victory Institute works to achieve global equality through leadership development, training, and convening to increase the number, expand the diversity, and ensure the success of openly LGBTQ elected and appointed officials at all levels of government.