The first openly gay elected official in the United States was Harvey Milk. Elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977, Milk's tenure was marked by his passionate advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting issues of discrimination and homophobia. He became a symbol of hope and change, encouraging members of the LGBTQ+ community to engage in politics and public life. Tragically assassinated in 1978, Milk’s legacy continues to inspire activism, and his contributions to the fight for civil rights remain a vital part of American history.