Pennsylvania’s top health official said Tuesday that he received multiple strokes while managing the state’s coronavirus response.
Health Secretary Rachel Levine referred to the personal attacks during a press conference, in a change of tone from her usual public comments focused on COVID-19, Spotlight PA reported.
“While these people may think they are just expressing their discontent with me, they are in fact hurting the thousands of Pennsylvania LGBTQ residents directly suffering from these ongoing manifestations of bullying,” said Levine.
“I have no room in my heart for hate,” he added. “And frankly, I don’t have time for bigotry.”
Levine warned residents that “our children are watching” and spoke directly to LGBTQ youth, saying, “It’s okay to be you,” according to Spotlight PA.
The Pennsylvania health secretary also posted on Twitter, saying she felt she had to personally respond to the attacks.
“Their actions perpetuate a spirit of intolerance and discrimination against LGBTQ people and specifically transgender people,” he tweeted.
I feel like I must personally respond to the multiple incidents of #LGBTQ harassment and specifically the transphobia directed at me.
Their actions perpetuate a spirit of intolerance and discrimination against LGBTQ people and specifically transgender people. pic.twitter.com/muX55irYkO
– Dr. Rachel Levine (@SecretaryLevine) July 28, 2020
Levine, one of the few transgender public officials in the country, is the first transgender person to run a Pennsylvania agency.
His comments come after a local restaurant included a description of transphobic foods directed at Levine on his menu, Northern Pennsylvania Station. WETM reported. A local fair also named a man in a dress and wig in a “Dr. Levine” dip tank to raise funds before apologizing, NBC Philadelphia reported.
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf (D) released a statement last week he supported Levine amid the attacks, calling her “a distinguished and accomplished public servant.”
“She is committed to keeping Pennsylvanians safe and healthy, even those who lead hate-fueled attacks on her,” he said. “I am proud of the work she has done in her five years serving Pennsylvania residents, and her success in leading our community during the COVID-19 crisis is a testament to her intelligence and work ethic.”
Levine said during Tuesday’s press conference that she feels “supported” by Wolf.
“He is the best ally we could have in the LGBTQ community,” he said.
.
