Pennsylvania’s new governor took an important step forward last week for LGBT rights, before even being inaugurated.
In a history-making move, Gov. Tom Wolf nominated Dr. Rachel Levine to the post of physician general; if confirmed, and if the post is part of Wolf’s cabinet, Levine will become one of the highest-ranked transgender government officials in the country. And, she will be the first transgender person ever appointed to a high-ranking post within Pennsylvania government.
The move should be heralded for a number of reasons. First, Levine’s background alone is deserving of the nomination.
A physician for more than 30 years, Levine’s education includes training at Harvard University, Tulane University and Mount Sinai Medical Center. Following a career in adolescent medicine, she ascended to the helm of the Division of Adolescent Medicine and Eating Disorders at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
While her credentials make her a natural fit for the post — which oversees the state’s work not just in medical fields, but also in mental- and behavioral-health areas — Levine’s nomination is also both a practical and symbolic win for the LGBT community.
As an out trans woman and close advisor to the governor, Levine would occupy an LGBT seat (hopefully, one of many) at the table. Levine has a long history of LGBT advocacy and involvement, and will doubtlessly bring that to the position. Her proximity in state government, therefore, could function to heighten the awareness of and action on issues facing the LGBT community.
And, her appointment is a long-overdue acknowledgment that transgender people play vital roles in the operations of our state. Levine’s nomination illustrates to Pennsylvania that one’s gender identity — in addition to one’s sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin and age — does not and should not matter, one way or the other, toward advancing one’s personal and professional goals. This is an empowering message that is not often enough sent to our community.