John – Harvey Milk would be 92 years old today.
Born and raised in New York City, Harvey moved to San Francisco in his early 40s and immediately became immersed in the political and social activism for LGBTQIA+ equality.
In 1977, he ran for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and became the first openly gay man elected to public office in California. The following year he was assassinated. For being gay.
I was 13 years old when Harvey Milk was murdered. I remember it vividly, and I draw on his courage often. His landmark speech about hope resonates with me to this day — not just for Queer liberation, but for all the things we’re fighting for.
And I find myself drawing on Harvey’s vision a little more often these days.
Over 300 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in 36 states in 2022 alone. While there has been extended news coverage of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill (now signed into law), and several states’ bills attacking Trans youth, most of these bills have flown completely under the radar.
It’s a terrifying time for young queer people. And many of us who’ve been in the fight for years are feeling like we’re back at ground zero.
But we can’t afford to give up, John. If you and I allow ourselves to give in to hopelessness, we are abandoning the young people in our lives who depend on us to fight for their protection.
Who need to see hope on the horizon.
I’m writing to you today to say that we are NOT giving up. We will NOT go back in the closet. And we will NOT lose hope.
I believe, fiercely, in a just world where we can all live in peace and be treated equally. And it is out of the love I have for my community that I will keep fighting for that world.
