Harvey Milk was a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist and politician. In 1978, he became the first openly gay person to be elected to public office in California. He was assassinated in November 1978 and is seen as a hero by many people today because of his courage to stand up for the rights of others. Harvey Milk was, undoubtedly, a leading civil rights advocate who fought for the rights of LGBT people, women and minorities. He was able to push through legislation like repealing laws which criminalized same sex activity, passing a gay rights ordinance in San Francisco, and hiring openly gay teachers. He also pushed for social programs to help homeless people and drug addicts. His legacy continues to live on today with Harvey Milk Day – celebrating those who take a stand against injustice in honor of his legacy.
Background
Harvey Milk was born on May 22nd, 1930 in Woodmere, Ohio. His father died when he was two years old and his mother raised him in New York City. He moved to San Francisco in 1972 where he became a successful businessman in the camera store. After some time of living there he had convinced himself that it would be an easier place for a homosexual to raise children compared to New York City which he knew very well at that point.
Harvey Milk Day
Harvey Milk Day is celebrated on May 22nd of each year, which would have been Harvey Milk’s 83rd birthday. It is worth noting that this day is not just about Harvey Milk but also an opportunity for people to learn more about LGBTQIA+ activism and how they’ve helped shaped history from the people who were alive during that time. There are so many reasons why Harvey Milk Day is important. For example, it serves as a reminder that LGBTQ+ people have had their voices silenced throughout history. It shows what can happen if we don’t let the voices of others speak out or they are denied any kind of representation.
Harvey Milk Life Events
- Harvey Milk is a gay rights activist. He was one of the first openly gay officeholders in the United States.
- Harvey Milk Day celebrates his life, legacy and contributions to gay rights
- The day was first celebrated on May 22, 1985
- From 1970 to 1973 Harvey Milk served as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors
- In 1977, he became California’s first openly LGBT public official elected to statewide office when he won a seat in the state Assembly
- He became instrumental in opening up political opportunities for LGBT people across America and around the world
- He is known for his progressive stance on several social issues, including LGBT rights, animal rights, and women’s rights.
- Milk was a member of the Democratic Party. He served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors from 1977 to 1978 and then as an elected member of California’s state Assembly from 1978 until his assassination in November 1978.
We all love him for his courage to stand for the rights of others, especially gay community.
