Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk would have turned 79 today. In 1977 Milk became the first out publicly elected official in the state of California. The gay rights icon was assassinated by fellow city council member Dan White in 1978. White was only sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison which outraged the LGBT community and spurred the White Night Riots 30 years ago yesterday.

Harvey Milk was famous for standing on a milk crate with a bull horn and shouting, “I’m Harvey Milk and I’m here to recruit you!” Millions continue to hear his message from the Oscar nominated film about his life, “Milk”.

The California Senate recently passed legislation that would recognize May 22 as Harvey Milk day, “On this “day of special significance” in the state, schools would be encouraged to commemorate his legacy.”

Governor Schwarzeneger vetoed the bill last year, however with Milks higher profile and celebrity fans it would be a surprise he vetoed it again this year.