Harvey Milk Day
May 22, Thursday
Who Was Harvey Milk?
Harvey Milk was a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist and politician. In 1977, he was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, making history as one of the first openly gay individuals to be elected to public office in the United States. Milk was known for his advocacy for equal rights and his efforts to combat discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1978, less than a year after taking office.
Establishment of the Holiday
Harvey Milk Day was established in California in 2009 when Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the bill into law. The holiday is not a federal holiday, but it is recognized as a day of special significance in California public schools.
How It Is Observed
On Harvey Milk Day, schools and organizations often hold educational events and activities to commemorate Milk’s contributions to civil rights. These may include:
- Classroom discussions about LGBTQ+ history and civil rights
- Screenings of documentaries or films about Harvey Milk
- Guest speakers or panel discussions
- Community service projects or rallies promoting equality and inclusion
Significance
Harvey Milk Day serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity, inclusion, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. It encourages people to reflect on the progress made and the work that still needs to be done to achieve full equality.