Larry Gierer
The Oakland Park City Commissioner on Harvey Milk's impact on his life.
Larry Gierer
Larry Gierer
Commissioner, Oakland Park, FL
Democrat
What specific challenges did you face running or serving because of your sexual orientation?
Maintaining my health and a positive state of mind. Let me explain…When I first ran for office in 2001, one of my opponents, during the Sun-Sentinel’s newspaper’s Editorial Board Interview for Endorsement, decided to out the fact that I was gay and HIV Positive. Mind you, I never hid the fact that I was gay or HIV Positive. Suddenly my sexual orientation and health status became front page news along with his prejudiced and homophobic views. I received the endorsement of the Sun-Sentinel and won the election by an overwhelming majority.
Once elected to office my opponent sent postcards to my home quoting scripture from Leviticus stating: “he who lies with another man shall be put to death.” On one occasion I looked out my door and noticed a small group gathering in front of my home. When I asked what they were doing they responded, “we are here to pray for your soul.” I quickly joined hands with them and said, “If you are here to pray for me don’t leave me out for I too shall pray for you.” When my tires became flattened, my partner, Carlos, became concerned for my wellbeing and requested a meeting with the city manager to stop this harassment. During that meeting, Carlos made reference to Harvey Milk and the horrible shooting incident that took place in San Francisco. The City Manager also remembered and had the sheriff pay a visit to my one time opponent’s home ending the harassment. Since that day I have not had any other instances.
I was up for re-election in 2005 and was unopposed, setting a record in the history of the City as the first incumbent who was not challenged for their seat. Being the top vote-getter, I became the first openly gay Mayor in the City of Oakland Park from 2007 to 2008.
Harvey Milk gave inspiration to people like myself and others who proudly serve their communities as openly gay elected officials. He will always be remembered for breaking down that glass ceiling. Harvey Milk opened the doors for all openly gay candidates and politicians. He showed the need for municipal government to represent the diversity of our population. Because of that, you have no reason to hide your sexual orientation when holding office. If you can’t be honest with yourselves how can you honestly serve those whom you represent?
Commissioner Larry Gierer is a 13-year resident of Oakland Park, and has resided in Broward County for more than 20 years. He is a retired advertising executive, professional model and actor. Commissioner Gierer was elected to the Oakland Park City Commission in March 2001 and served as Mayor during 2007-2008. A longtime community activist, Gierer was instrumental in the City of Oakland Park passing its Domestic Partnership Benefit to City employees.
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