Got Milk?

Ro and I volunteered for Equality Utah last week. We passed out postcards to everyone leaving the filming of MILK. The best part is we got to watch the movie - free!

Until the last year, I hadn't had much contact with the GLBT community, I wasn't too aware of our history. So, coming into this movie, I wasn't sure what to expect. I got more than I expected.

Harvey Milk is often known as a "martyr for gay rights". He opened a camera store on Castro St. and setup residence in the Castro district. This was at a time when this district was experiencing an influx of gays and lesbians. He ran for and lost City Supervisor a couple of times until a final victory. He used his popularity to lead the gay political movement in fierce battles against anti-gay initiatives. When I was one year old, Milk became the first openly gay man to be elected into office. During his time in office, he took on the likes of Anita Bryant, John Briggs and the infamous Proposition 6, a bill that would have taken the job away of any openly gay teacher.

Milk is especially known for the two bills he sponsored. The first one was a civil rights bill that outlawed discrimination based on sexual orientation. The other bill Milk concentrated on was designed to solve the number one problem according to a recent citywide poll: dog poop. Within a month of being sworn in, he began to work on a city ordinance to require dog owners to scoop their pets' poop.

Sean Penn is Oscar-worthy in his portrayal of Milk. Everything, including real clips of rallies, marches, was fabulous!

It amazes me that the fights Milk started in the 70's are still being fought today - with the addition of same-sex marriage. Many states have anti-discrimination and hate laws for sexual orientation or sexual identity. Not Utah. I could be kicked out of my apartment or fired from my job...just because of who I am...just because I am gay. It's very scary but true.

I would have loved to be part of the movement in the 70's, been part of the Stonewall Riots, but I wasn't. I am proud to be part of the movement that is today. The movement for same-sex marriages, a supporter for Common Grounds Initiative, which is going to the legislature next session, and an activist for Equal Rights for All! When it comes to my rights as an American citizen, I will stand up and fight. I have the right to justice, liberty and the pursuit of happiness - just like the guy next door.