Lecture Notes on Harvey Milk and the Assassination of George Moscone

Key Event

• Date: November 27, 1978
• Incident: Assassination of San Francisco's Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk
• Suspect: Supervisor Dan White

Harvey Milk

• Early Life: Born on May 22, 1930, in Woodmere, Long Island.
  • Middle-class Jewish family; practical joker in high school.
  • Career as a stock analyst on Wall Street; hid his homosexuality.
• Activism and Politics: 1970s
  • Moved to San Francisco, opened a camera store on Castro Street.
  • Became involved in neighborhood politics and the gay rights movement.
  • Dubbed himself "The Mayor of Castro Street."
  • Ran for Board of Supervisors three times between 1973-1976 before winning in 1977.

Political Achievements

• District Elections Plan: Advocated for elections by district, which led to his election as Supervisor.
• Coalition Building: Worked with Mayor Moscone; supported various minority groups and neighborhood politics.
• Gay Rights Ordinance: Successfully passed a gay rights bill preventing discrimination against gay employees.

Personal Attributes

• Known for humor, advocacy for minorities, and practical political strategies.
• Demonstrated deep empathy and a personal connection with constituents.
• Known for organizing community events like the Castro Street Fair.

Assassination Details

• White's Motivation: Frustration due to not being reappointed; felt betrayed by the political process.
• Aftermath: White confessed to the murders; shocked community and nation.

Impact on Community

• Immediate Reaction: Thousands marched in candlelight vigil; massive outpouring of emotion and solidarity.
• Political Aftermath: Highlighted issues of discrimination; major influence on future gay rights activism.

Trial and Sentencing

• Verdict: Dan White sentenced to voluntary manslaughter, received a short sentence.
• Public Outcry: Verdict led to riots and protests known as the White Night Riots.

Legacy of Harvey Milk

• Influence on Gay Rights: Became a symbol of hope and change for the LGBTQ+ community.
• Call to Action: Urged LGBTQ+ individuals to come out and fight for their rights.
• Enduring Message: Emphasis on the importance of hope and visibility for minority communities.