On November 27, 1978, a shocking double assassination occurred at San Francisco City Hall, claiming the lives of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk. This tragic event not only marked a dark chapter in the city’s history but also catalyzed significant social justice movements, reshaping San Francisco’s identity and its approach to civil rights and political representation.
In This Article
Key Points
- The assassinations of George Moscone and Harvey Milk, key figures in San Francisco’s political and LGBTQ+ communities, underscored the city’s role as a center for social justice movements.
- Dan White’s use of the “Twinkie defense” and subsequent conviction for voluntary manslaughter sparked widespread outrage and the White Night riots, highlighting the community’s demand for justice and equality.
- Dianne Feinstein’s rise to prominence following the assassinations illustrates the impact of the event on individual careers and the broader political landscape of California.
Life in San Francisco in the Late 1970s
In the late 1970s, San Francisco was a hub of cultural and political activism, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. The Castro District emerged as a center for LGBTQ+ activism, with Harvey Milk serving as a prominent leader and advocate for gay rights. The assassinations deeply affected the city’s residents, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community and among political activists, who mourned the loss of two influential figures and demanded justice.
The Assassinations at San Francisco City Hall
On November 27, 1978, former Supervisor Dan White entered City Hall through a basement window, avoiding metal detectors. He confronted Mayor Moscone about not being reappointed to his position and shot him four times. White then proceeded to Milk’s office and shot him five times. The immediate aftermath at City Hall was one of shock and grief, as the city grappled with the loss of two beloved leaders.
Political and Social Aftermath
- The White Night Riots: Following Dan White’s conviction for voluntary manslaughter, which many viewed as a lenient sentence, the White Night riots erupted in San Francisco. Protesters clashed with police, setting police cars on fire and vandalizing City Hall. These riots highlighted the community’s frustration with the justice system and demand for equal treatment.
- Legislative and Social Changes: In the wake of the assassinations, San Francisco passed a gay rights ordinance that had been championed by Milk. The tragedy also led to increased visibility and support for the LGBTQ+ community, both locally and nationally.
Dianne Feinstein’s Political Ascendancy
Dianne Feinstein, who was then President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, became acting mayor following Moscone’s assassination. Her handling of the crisis and her public announcement of the deaths propelled her into the national spotlight. Feinstein went on to become San Francisco’s first female mayor and later California’s first female U.S. senator, advocating for gun control legislation and LGBTQ+ rights.
The Legacy of Harvey Milk and George Moscone
- Advancements in LGBTQ+ Rights: Harvey Milk’s legacy as a pioneer for LGBTQ+ rights continues to inspire activists today. His advocacy laid the groundwork for future victories in the fight for equality.
- Moscone’s Contributions to San Francisco: George Moscone is remembered for his efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in San Francisco. He appointed women and minorities to key positions and worked to improve conditions for marginalized communities.
The Cultural Impact of the Assassinations
The Moscone-Milk assassinations have been portrayed in various media, including the Academy Award-winning film “Milk” (2008) and the documentary “The Times of Harvey Milk” (1984). Annual candlelight marches are held in memory of Milk and Moscone, and several public spaces, such as the Moscone Center and Harvey Milk Plaza, have been named in their honor.
FAQ
What were the Moscone-Milk assassinations?
The Moscone-Milk assassinations refer to the killing of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk by former Supervisor Dan White on November 27, 1978, at San Francisco City Hall.
Who was Dan White, and what was the “Twinkie defense”?
Dan White was a former San Francisco Supervisor who assassinated Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk. During his trial, his defense team argued that his mental state had been affected by his consumption of sugary foods, including Twinkies, leading to the term “Twinkie defense”.
How did the assassinations impact LGBTQ+ rights in San Francisco?
The assassinations galvanized the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco and led to the passage of a gay rights ordinance that had been championed by Harvey Milk. The tragedy also brought increased visibility and support for the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
What were the White Night riots, and why did they occur?
The White Night riots were a series of violent protests that erupted in San Francisco following the conviction of Dan White for voluntary manslaughter, rather than murder. The LGBTQ+ community and their allies viewed the verdict as too lenient and took to the streets to express their outrage.
How did Dianne Feinstein’s career change after the assassinations?
Dianne Feinstein, who was President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors at the time of the assassinations, became acting mayor following George Moscone’s death. Her handling of the crisis propelled her into the national spotlight and launched her political career, eventually leading to her becoming San Francisco’s first female mayor and later California’s first female U.S. senator.
