Pelosi Statement on Harvey Milk Day

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today commemorating the fourth annual observance of Harvey Milk Day in the state of California:

“Today, we recall the courage, idealism, and hope of Harvey Milk. We remember his leadership for equal rights and his pursuit of justice. We remain inspired by his declaration, when sworn in as a San Francisco Supervisor, that his victory gave a ‘green light’ to all who felt disenfranchised and opened doors of opportunity for everyone.

“On this Harvey Milk Day – on what would be his 83rd birthday – Harvey’s green light has opened doors for LGBT elected officials nationwide: from America’s first LGBT Senator in Tammy Baldwin to six LGBT Members of the House, each contributing their leadership to the most diverse Democratic Caucus in history. These Members are a living testament to Harvey’s principle that LGBT people deserve a place at the table.

“To advance our shared values and ideals, Democrats have acted to repeal ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell’; to pass a fully-inclusive hate crimes law; to increase funding for HIV/AIDS care; and to reauthorize the Ryan White Act. And soon, the Supreme Court will discard the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act and Prop. 8, into the dustbin of history.

“San Francisco takes pride in its connection to Harvey Milk’s trailblazing leadership for compassion and civil rights. Today, Harvey’s legacy lives on in our ongoing drive to end injustice and inequality throughout our nation. The cause of his life remains our fight right now: to give a green light to LGBT Americans and every American for justice, for fairness, for opportunity for all.”

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