U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary Rachel Levine has proclaimed this summer the "Summer of Pride," extending the celebration of Pride Month and calling for a "wave of change" in communities nationwide. Levine, the highest-ranking openly transgender official in the U.S. government, shared this message in a video posted on HHS's official Instagram account and reiterated the sentiment on Twitter.

Levine expressed hope for widespread societal shifts, stating, "I see it as an opportunity for change in our communities, states & nation. It will take us all, but together we can create a wave of change. Let the 'Summer of Pride' begin!"

The HHS launched a digital series on Instagram to commemorate the "Summer of Pride," featuring conversations between Levine and LGBTQ+ advocates. The inaugural video included a discussion with transgender activist Ryan Cassata, focusing on challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in certain states. Levine likened procedures for gender transition, including surgeries and hormone therapies, to "suicide prevention care," emphasizing their importance for both youth and adults.

Levine, who transitioned in 2011, has been a vocal proponent of "gender-affirming care" and has previously pledged the Biden administration's full support for minors' access to such care, including hormone treatments and sex-change surgeries. This stance has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers, who have questioned the evidence supporting these procedures for minors experiencing gender dysphoria.

Levine also commended President Biden's support for the LGBTQ+ community, referencing his remarks at the White House's Pride event. This event faced controversy after transgender activists exposed themselves, drawing condemnation from both social media users and GOP officials, and subsequently from the White House itself.