The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under President Joe Biden has implemented a new policy requiring employees to acknowledge their co-workers’ gender identities and use their preferred pronouns. The HHS, led by transgender pediatrician Rachel Levine, has advocated for various measures, including sex changes for children.
An email from HHS, shared by the Heritage Foundation’s Roger Severino, introduces the “HHS Gender Non-Discrimination and Inclusion Policy.” It was sent on “National Coming Out Day,” a day dedicated to recognizing the LGBTQIA+ community.
The email’s message emphasizes creating a welcoming and supportive environment where transgender and non-binary employees are safe and seen. It introduces the “HHS Gender Identity Non-Discrimination and Inclusion Guidance,” outlining employee rights and protections related to gender identity.
The policy covers workplace changes, such as legal name changes, and provides procedures to safeguard gender expressions. It streamlines the process for updating names in HHS IT systems, allows transgender employees to change their names in official records, and ensures that all employees are addressed by the names and pronouns they use to describe themselves. The guidance also allows employees to wear clothing and use restrooms in accordance with their gender identity.
HHS shared a video message from Andrea Palm, Deputy Secretary at HHS, and Rachel Levine, celebrating National Coming Out Day on October 11. The video emphasizes the importance of inclusive work environments, diversity, and innovation.
The HHS’s Assistant Secretary for Administration, Cheryl Campbell, stressed the principles of fairness, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of their work. Levine urged supervisors and managers to ensure the policy is fully implemented across all divisions and staff, emphasizing the role of every employee in creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace.
The National Institutes of Health has also issued guidance to foster inclusive and affirming workplace environments.
The Biden administration has been proactive in promoting diversity and inclusion in its workforce, with a focus on hiring and promoting individuals from various sexual and gender identities.
