Topic: Bruce Childs

Life as a gay pioneer is no “Milk” run

October 26, 2008 |

Let’s face it. A name like Harvey Milk practically begs for a pun in the title in any article written about the martyred Board of Supervisor from San Francisco. Like any person in American history, there’s a great deal more to this man than his vitamin-D name. His story will be told to audiences everywhere beginning this week when Milk, a new film from Focus Pictures, will be premiered in San Francisco.

I remember the first time I heard about Milk; it was during a meeting of the gay-straight alliance at Austin Peay State University. The advisor was long-time gay activist and art professor, Dr. Bruce Childs (who’s now enjoying a very well-deserved retirement). Childs mentioned Harvey Milk in passing during a conversation, which inspired me to learn more about this keystone piece of American gay history.

Back in 1977, when Milk first came to light in San Francisco politics, the country’s gay community was beginning to enjoy some much-needed exposure and was well on its way to achieving a few minor protections and gay-rights laws. (Some, like the anti-discrimination law passed in Dade County, Florida, were later repealed through the work of “religious right” leaders). Bryant later received her thanks: a pie in the face. «Read the rest of this article»

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