The Obama administration has appointed the first openly transgender woman to an official position in the White House.
Raffi Freedman-Gurspan, a transgender woman, will now serve as the Outreach and Recruitment Director in the White House Office of Presidential Personnel.
“Raffi Freedman-Gurspan demonstrates the kind of leadership this Administration champions,” Valerie Jarrett, senior advisor to the president, said in a statement. “Her commitment to bettering the lives of transgender Americans, particularly transgender people of color and those in poverty, reflects the values of this administration.”
While sad to see her employee go, [National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)] Executive Director Mara Keisling said she is “elated” over the “historic appointment.”
As a long-time supporter I am proud of the president's record on related matters but today I am particularly proud. This is an inclusive example to set for future administrations and the rest of the nation. It's a second glass ceiling that should be shattered to allow the best people to serve in positions they are qualified for.
Raffi Freedman-Gurspan was also the first openly transgender woman to work at the Massachusetts State House.