Michael A. Gin
The Republican Mayor of Redondo Beach reveals what Milk means to him.
Michael A. Gin
Michael A. Gin
Mayor, Redondo Beach, California
Republican
When did you first learn about the life (and death) of Harvey Milk? What did he mean to you then? How old were you? etc.
In 1978 I was a sophomore in High School when I first heard of Supervisor Milk’s death. At that time I was unsure of my sexual orientation. However, I felt it was tragic to learn of a person’s death solely because of his sexual orientation.
Was Harvey Milk an inspiration to you when you ran for public office? What is it that inspired you about him?
I was so young when Supervisor Milk died and unsure of my sexual orientation at that time. His life did not play as large a role as to whether or not to run for office. However, as I began my political career, and realizing I am gay, I began to appreciate the tremendous impact Supervisor Milk had on political issues of importance to the gay community. I also was amazed at the courage Supervisor Milk had to be an openly gay elected official during a time where there was an extreme amount of prejudice against the gay community.
What specific challenges did you face running (or serving) because of your own sexual orientation?
My greatest challenge was fear – fear of being treated differently and fear of being treated unfairly because of my sexual orientation. However, during my 12 years of being an elected official in the City of Redondo Beach, I have found people have always treated me with kindness and respect. My sexual orientation has never been an issue in the performance of my duties. I feel fortunate for that because I know there are still many pockets of discrimination in many parts of the country.
What has changed the most for a lesbian/gay politician since the days of Harvey Milk?
Society has grown to be more accepting and understanding of the GBLT community, largely due to individuals like Supervisor Milk who had the courage to be out and open with his sexual orientation in a very public position. Individuals like him have set the stage and made it possible for our community to be accepted in many parts of our nation. However as the recent elections indicate, there is still work to be done. It is important for us to carry on Supervisor Milk’s legacy as we continue to work toward full equality and civil rights for our community in all areas in our country.
Mike Gin serves as Supervisor Knabe’s Field Deputy for San Pedro, Wilmington, Harbor-Gateway and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Besides his service to Supervisor Knabe, Mike also serves as Mayor of the City of Redondo Beach. He has served on the Redondo Beach City Council since 1995.
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