Senate honors Harvey Milk Day with resolution supporting LGBTQ rights and representation

The California Senate convened on May 19, 2025, to honor Harvey Milk Day through the passage of Senate Resolution 38, led by Senator Alex Padilla. This resolution recognizes May as a month to celebrate the legacy of Harvey Milk, a pivotal figure in the LGBTQ rights movement and the first openly gay elected official in California.

Senator Padilla emphasized Milk's enduring impact, stating, "His unprecedented victory and the power of his advocacy as an elected official continue to inspire all of us today." He highlighted Milk's relentless fight against discrimination and his call for visibility within the LGBTQ community, urging members to embrace their true identities. Padilla poignantly recalled Milk's tragic assassination, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance in the pursuit of justice and equality.

Senator Scott Wiener, representing San Francisco, shared personal reflections on Milk's influence, noting that Milk's activism paved the way for future leaders in the LGBTQ community. He connected Milk's fight against Proposition 6, which sought to ban LGBTQ teachers, to current anti-LGBTQ legislation, asserting that the same forces of hatred persist today.

Senator María Elena Durazo, speaking on behalf of the Latino caucus, pointed out the stark contrast between Milk's legacy of advocacy and recent federal cuts to HIV/AIDS funding, which threaten vital health services. She called for a recommitment to the values Milk championed, urging all to live unapologetically.

The discussions also included tributes from various senators, including reflections on Milk's Jewish heritage and his commitment to justice for all marginalized communities. Senator Cabaldon noted Milk's role in fostering coalitions among diverse groups, while Senator Weber Pearson highlighted Milk's broader vision for equality that encompassed the struggles of the Black community.

As the session concluded, the Senate unanimously voted in favor of SR 38, reaffirming their commitment to honor Harvey Milk's legacy and continue the fight for equality and justice for all marginalized groups. The resolution serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community and the importance of solidarity in the pursuit of civil rights.