Northgate HS community honors Harvey Milk and historic debate that took place 45 years ago

The Northgate High School and MDUSD community honored Harvey Milk, the first openly gay San Francisco City Supervisor, and the historic televised Proposition 6 debate that took place in the Northgate High School gymnasium 45 years ago with a plaque dedication event on Oct. 16, 2023.

Proposition 6 was a 1978 ballot initiative that would have banned LGBTQIA+ people and their supporters from working in public schools. Supervisor Milk debated State Senator John Briggs, the author of the initiative, which was defeated two months later, largely due to Milk’s advocacy. Supervisor Milk was assassinated three weeks after the ballot initiative’s defeat. His debate with Sen. Briggs at Northgate High School was one of his final public appearances. A re-enactment of the debate was featured in the Oscar Award-winning film, Milk.

More information about Milk's legacy and the Northgate debate is in this Mercury News article and this KCBS report. "I am so proud to be part of a school community that uplifts the experiences and contributions of marginalized groups,” said U.S. History and ethnic studies teacher Meg Honey, who organized the event. “Harvey Milk helped protect the human rights of school employees, and it is time that his courageous leadership during the debate at Northgate High is honored." She also noted that the District is recognizing LGBTQ+ History Month in October.

Speakers at the commemorative event included Honey, MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, Contra Costa County Supervisor Ken Carlson, Rainbow Community Center Board President Dr. Jonathan Lee, Northgate student Ares Foster, Northgate teacher Lauren Lahey, Northgate Principal Kelly Cooper, and special guest Stuart Milk, Harvey Milk's nephew and President of the Harvey Milk Foundation. 
 
Speakers said they were inspired by Harvey Milk and want to ensure that his legacy continues inspire future generations. "History does not look favorably on those who support discrimination," said Dr. Clark, pointing out that it is important to speak up against unjust attacks on personal freedoms. Carlson, who is the first openly gay Contra Costa County Supervisor, said he considered Harvey Milk to be one of his "heroes," and he vowed to be a voice fighting for those who are oppressed.

Stuart Milk said "everyday heroes" include LGBTQ+ people who "come out" and people who don't tolerate jokes or ridicule of LGBTQ+ people. Although Harvey Milk did not live to see gay marriage legalized and other LGBTQ+ rights initiatives passed throughout the country, "he dreamed of it," Stuart Milk said. "And you are all making that dream come true." Cooper thanked Northgate teachers who are allies to LGBTQ+ students and provide safe spaces for them and those who are role models for students. She also thanked her students and for parents who are affirming them. "I can use my position to advocate, listen and to support," Cooper said. "And I will continue to do so."