Harvey Milk Day is an annual observance dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Harvey Milk, a trailblazing LGBTQ+ rights activist and the first openly gay man elected to public office in California. This day serves as a reminder of Milk’s relentless fight for equality, his inspiring leadership, and his enduring impact on civil rights.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 22 (Harvey Milk’s birthday)
- Tagged as: LGBTQ+ Rights, Equality, Civil Rights
- What’s the hashtag?: #HarveyMilkDay
- When was it founded?: 2009
- Who founded it?: Harvey Milk Foundation, with support from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
History of Harvey Milk Day
Harvey Milk Day was established in 2009 as a California state holiday to commemorate the life of Harvey Milk. Born in 1930, Milk became a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1978 when he was assassinated. His legacy lives on through this day, which promotes education about his contributions to equality and civil rights.
Timeline
- 1930: Harvey Milk is born in Woodmere, New York.
- 1977: Elected as the first openly gay official in California.
- 1978: Assassinated alongside Mayor George Moscone.
- 2009: Harvey Milk Day is officially recognized in California.
- 2025: The day continues to inspire activism and education worldwide.
Dates for Harvey Milk Day (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 22 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 22 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 22 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 22 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 22 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 22 | Wednesday |
Observed on Harvey Milk Day
Harvey Milk Day is observed primarily in California but has gained recognition across the U.S. and beyond.
- Educational Programs: Schools use this day to teach students about Harvey Milk’s life and contributions to civil rights.
- Community Events: Events like marches, lectures, and film screenings celebrate his legacy.
- Advocacy Initiatives: Activists use this day to promote equality and raise awareness about ongoing LGBTQ+ issues.
Fun Facts About Harvey Milk Day
- Time magazine named Harvey Milk one of the “100 Most Important People of the 20th Century.”
- His famous quote, “Hope will never be silent,” continues to inspire activists worldwide.
- The movie Milk (2008), based on his life, won two Academy Awards.
Quiz
- What year was Harvey Milk elected to public office?
- What city did Harvey Milk represent as a supervisor?
- When was Harvey Milk Day officially recognized?
- What is the official date of Harvey Milk Day?
- What is one of Harvey Milk’s most famous quotes?
(Answers: 1. 1977; 2. San Francisco; 3. 2009; 4. May 22; 5. “Hope will never be silent.”)
FAQs
- What is Harvey Milk Day?
It is an annual observance celebrating the life and legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Harvey Milk. - Why is it celebrated on May 22?
This date marks Harvey Milk’s birthday. - Is it a public holiday?
In California, it is recognized as a day of special significance but not a federal holiday. - Who can celebrate it?
Anyone who supports equality and civil rights can participate. - What activities are common on this day?
Educational events, community gatherings, and advocacy campaigns are common.
Importance of Harvey Milk Day
Harvey Milk Day holds significant importance as it:
- Promotes Equality: It highlights the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and broader civil rights issues.
- Inspires Activism: The day encourages individuals to take action against discrimination.
- Educates Future Generations: It ensures that younger generations learn about the struggles and achievements of past activists like Harvey Milk.
Related Days
- National Coming Out Day
- Pride Month
- International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia