SACRAMENTO—Today legislation to commemorate May 22, 2018 as Harvey Milk Day passed the Assembly by a unanimous vote. House Resolution 108 is authored by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley), Chair of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus.
“Harvey Milk’s role in the LGBT civil rights movement and his resulting legacy have inspired generations of LGBT leaders and activists,” said Assemblymember Low. “His contributions to the state of California are lasting, and it is important that we recognize and honor him.”
Harvey Milk was the first openly gay person to be elected to public office in a major city in the US, serving on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors from 1977-1978.
While in office, Milk worked to pass a gay rights ordinance and defeat Proposition 6, commonly known as the Briggs Initiative, which would have banned gays and lesbians from teaching in public schools. Milk encouraged LGBT people to be visible in society and believed in achieving social equality.
Perhaps more than any other modern figure, Harvey Milk's life and political career embody the rise of the LGBT civil rights movement. Harvey Milk's legacy as a civil rights leader is still felt today. He was named one of TIME Magazine's most influential people of the 20th century. Harvey Milk’s life and social contributions have left an indelible mark on the history of our nation and hold a special meaning for the people of California.
