According to the organization, Equality California, "California could become the first state in the nation to designate a day specifically commemorating a leader of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. The Assembly Education Committee today approved legislation that would establish May 22 as Harvey Milk Day in California."

In the 1970's, Harvey Milk became the first openly gay man to be elected to a political position in the United States. Milk was aware that being out about his sexual orientation could be risky, yet he refused to pretend to be something he was not. Tragically, Milk, along with the then major George Moscone, was murdered by a self proclaimed anti-gay conservative, and fellow politician.

If the bill passes, one day a year will be set aside to remember Milk. Schools will be encouraged to discuss Milk's life and legacy and GLBT teens will see that their communities recognize and value the contributions and sacrifices of its gay members.

Image (c) Steve Rhodes