San Francisco, CA — San Francisco leaders have sharply criticized the Trump administration’s decision to remove the name of Harvey Milk, the pioneering gay rights activist and former city supervisor, from a U.S. naval ship. The move has drawn widespread condemnation, particularly as it comes during Pride Month, a time when communities across the nation celebrate LGBTQ+ history and achievements.
Harvey Milk remains an iconic figure in San Francisco’s history. As one of the first openly gay elected officials in the world, Milk’s election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977 marked a milestone in LGBTQ+ political representation. His activism and advocacy for gay rights made him a beloved and revered leader.
Milk’s legacy is further underscored by his military service. He served honorably for four years in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, only to be discharged after it was discovered that he was gay — a reflection of the discrimination LGBTQ+ individuals faced within the armed forces at the time.
Last month, California marked what would have been Milk’s 95th birthday with proclamations celebrating his courage, kindness, and calls for unity. The removal of his name from the naval ship — a symbol that once recognized his contributions — has been viewed by many as a step backward in honoring LGBTQ+ history and veterans.
San Francisco officials have expressed their outrage, emphasizing that Milk’s legacy deserves to be honored, not erased. The decision has reignited conversations about the importance of visibility and respect for LGBTQ+ figures in public institutions, especially during Pride Month.
As the community reflects on Milk’s enduring impact, many hope that his story will continue to inspire progress and inclusion within the military and beyond.