Post submitted by Brian McBride, former HRC Digital Strategist

Today, HRC honors LGBTQ civil rights hero Harvey Milk.

Milk made history when he was elected to serve as San Francisco City Supervisor in 1977, becoming one of the first openly LGBTQ elected officials in the country. Less than a year into his term, on November 27, 1978, he was assassinated, along with Mayor George Moscone.

Despite his brief time in office, Milk’s contributions and influence live on in the work of activists and allies fighting for LGBTQ equality throughout the U.S. and around the world.

Milk’s legacy was evident earlier this month, as citizens mobilized in record numbers to turnout the vote, powering historic wins for pro-equality candidates. For the first time in U.S. history, more than a half a dozen openly transgender candidates were elected to public offices in states across the country -- from Georgia to Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire to California.

Milk envisioned a place where all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated equally. HRC, as well as countless other LGBTQ organizations, pro-equality lawmakers and supporters, share that vision and strive every day to make full equality a reality for millions of LGBTQ people.

“Hope will never be silent,” Milk famously stated.

The San Francisco HRC Action Center and Store is located in Milk's former camera shop in the historic Castro District. In addition to keeping LGBTQ individuals and allies informed on national issues, the action center engages advocates to push leaders at all levels to support full equality for all.

Today, we honor Milk’s leadership, legacy, vision and sacrifice.