Saturday, April 30, 2011

EQCA: Harvey Milk Day/LA
Equals 'Private Bel Air Estate'

The leaders of Equality California and gay Democratic officeholders in 2008 pushed to have May 22, Harvey Milk's birthday, declared a special day of significance across the state. EQCA promoted the legislation to create the special day to accomplish the following:

This bill would require the governor proclaim May 22 each year as Harvey Milk Day. It would encourage public schools and educational institutions to conduct suitable commemorative exercises on that date.

Sounds noble, right? Then why has EQCA utterly failed to push the educational aspects of Harvey Milk Day, and instead for 2011 is focusing on another one of their trademark high-priced ticket galas at a private estate, reeking of exclusion of elitism?

When I think of Harvey and his legacy, I don't see cocktail receptions, VIP lounges or a connection to a TV show about homes in the million-dollar-plus range, but that is exactly what EQCA is promoting in Los Angeles in a few weeks. It's pathetic that a "suitable commemorative exercise" means partying and nothing more.

If EQCA includes an iota of any effort involving schools and educational campaigns about Harvey in their Milk Day events this years, I would like to see it.

If you ask me, EQCA pulled a classic bait-and-switch Sacramento power-play. They promulgated Harvey Milk Day as educational, got their bill enacted, and all EQCA sees in the day is another fundraising opportunity that engages only A-gays.

So far, EQCA's site has not posted anything about their full slate of plans for Harvey Milk Day weekend. This info comes from an email invitation EQCA is sending to folks:

Harvey Milk Day Celebration
Los Angeles
Saturday, May 21
4 to 6 p.m.
VIP Reception 3 to 4 p.m.  
Special Guest:
Madison Hildebrand
of BRAVO's
Million Dollar Listing
Special Host:
 Shelley Curtis Litvack
Six-time Emmy Award-winning
Producer and Director
Address provided upon RSVP
Bel Air, CA
Join us to commemorate the immense contributions of Harvey Milk to our movement.
Enjoy summer cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a beautiful view from Shelley Curtis Litvack's private estate in Bel Air.
Space is limited, so get your tickets now!
Must be 21+
Ticket Levels:
$150 General Registration
$250 VIP Registration
Includes a special private reception from 3 to 4 p.m. with Madison Hildebrand, plus exclusive access to the VIP lounge and private bar.
Email Eric Harrison at Eric@eqca.org for more information.
Generously sponsored by
  

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