On his first day in office, Biden signed an executive order directing federal agencies to protect LGBTQ people under all federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on sex.Īs a result, the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced in February that LGBTQ people would be protected from housing discrimination by federal law for the first time in history. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg became the first openly LGBTQ person to serve in the Cabinet, and Assistant Health Secretary Rachel Levine became the first openly transgender person confirmed by the Senate. Nearly 14 percent of his 1,500 agency appointees identify as LGBTQ, he wrote. 'In doing so, they are opening hearts and minds, and laying the foundation for a more just and equitable America.'īiden - whose administration has been described by advocates as the most pro-LGBTQ administration in history - recognized the many LGBTQ firsts achieved so far during his presidency. 'During LGBTQ+ Pride Month, we recognize the resilience and determination of the many individuals who are fighting to live freely and authentically,' Biden wrote in a presidential proclamation declaring June Pride Month. President Joe Biden on Monday recognized Pride Month, saying he 'will not rest until full equality for LGBTQ+ Americans is finally achieved and codified into law.'
