Got Milk?

I have always felt extremely fortunate that I arrived in San Francisco in 1978, and the city continued to be my home until 2000. Many times I have joked with friends that one day I was going to park a rocking chair at the corner of 18th and Castro and tell the stories of yesteryear. I imagined a flock of baby gays gathered around as I spewed anecdotes of men in tight 501’s, flannel shirts, and mustaches. The crowd would move closer as I regaled them with details of Sylvester performing "You Make Me Feel (Might Real)" at the Castro Street Fair, sex before AIDS, and of course Harvey Milk.

This November will mark the 30th anniversary of Harvey’s assassination. I am privileged to have been there during such an important time in history – not just history in general, but the history of our community. Harvey was known as "The Mayor of Castro Street" and dedicated himself to working for equal rights for gay people everywhere. He was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977, becoming the city’s first openly gay elected official. Harvey’s life ended along with Mayor Moscone’s on November 27, 2008 when they were both shot and killed by city supervisor Dan White.

These events took place far away from Louisville and nearly 30 years ago but remain a crucial piece of our history. They tell of a time when our rights were not protected, of the importance of coming out, and of individuals who truly led the way for us. The evolution of our community did not happen by accident or by chance; it was propelled by dedicated individuals. In a time which was in fact not so long ago, many men and women could not find their voices and were silent. Harvey’s voice rang loud and clear when he said, "Burst down those closet doors once and for all and start to fight!" Our lives would not be as they are without the commitment and sacrifice of those before us.

As we near the anniversary of his passing, I hope we all take the time to honor Harvey. As his goal remains a work in progress, I encourage members of the Louisville/Lexington LGBT community to get involved, ensuring that Harvey’s vision continues on. I urge anyone who has not seen "The Times of Harvey Milk" to rent it. It’s a fascinating documentary of Harvey’s work and a wonderful glimpse of another era.

 By Tim Gribas