Harvey Milk

By: Jon Foster

Harvey Milk, born in 1930 in New York, was not yet the nationally recognised icon he would become, but by 1969 he was beginning to find his political voice as an openly gay man determined to challenge discrimination and reshape American politics. At this time, he was living in San Francisco, having left behind careers in teaching, insurance, and finance. He had not yet been elected to office, but the spirit of activism stirred within him as the Stonewall uprising that year energised the gay rights movement. Milk was charismatic, funny, and deeply passionate about justice—able to connect with people from all walks of life. His energy was infectious, and though still finding his footing in politics, he already carried the conviction that visibility and pride were powerful political tools.

Warm and approachable, Harvey had a talent for turning frustration into action and community-building. He was not afraid to be loud, joyful, and defiant in the face of hatred—and that boldness would soon make him one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States.