Another May, another Harvey Milk Day. Harvey Milk Day is an official day of special significance in California:


"California Education Code 37222.13. (a) May 22 of each year is designated and set apart as Harvey Milk Day, a day having special significance pursuant to Section 37222.

   (b) On Harvey Milk Day, all public schools and educational institutions are encouraged to conduct exercises remembering the life of Harvey Milk, recognizing his accomplishments, and familiarizing pupils with the contributions he made to this state."

According to the referenced Section 37222: "On each day designated and set apart as a day having special significance, all public schools and educational institutions are encouraged to observe that day and to conduct suitable commemorative exercises."


For most Districts across the state, this will be just another day, as most are confused as far as what to do regarding Harvey Milk.


Here are some sources of information that schools might find useful:


Harvey Milk in Schools
http://milkfoundation.org/harvey-in-schools/



Califoria Museum: Harvey Milk, Inductee, California Hall of Fame
http://www.californiamuseum.org/exhibits/halloffame/inductee/harvey-milk



In 2009, he was the recipient (posthumously) of the Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian honor. The White House website wrote: "Harvey Bernard Milk dedicated his life to shattering boundaries and challenging assumptions. As one of the first openly gay elected officials in this country, he changed the landscape of opportunity for the Nation’s gay community. Throughout his life, he fought discrimination with visionary courage and conviction. Before his tragic death in 1978, he wisely noted, 'Hope will never be silent,' and called upon Americans to stay true to the guiding principles of equality and justice for all. Harvey Milk’s voice will forever echo in the hearts of all those who carry forward his timeless message."



See the ceremony at which Harvey's nephew Stuart received the Medal in his uncle's honor.