‘Gay Power’ Not Taken Lightly In San Francisco (Press, 22 December 1982)

In December 1982, the San Francisco Retirement Board's decision to award $5500 to Scott Smith, the former companion of the late Supervisor Harvey Milk, sparked significant controversy. The payment was intended to provide support to Smith, who identified as a “dependent” of Milk, who was assassinated in 1978. The award was made under guidelines that permit compensation for “full-time dependents” of public officials. Smith testified that he had lived with Milk and received a modest annual sum of $500 from him. This decision represented a broader acknowledgment of the influence and needs of the homosexual community in San Francisco, a city with an estimated homosexual population of around 100,000, equivalent to about one-seventh of its residents. Harvey Milk was a prominent figure in the gay rights movement, and his assassination highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by the community. However, the award generated a polarized response. While some applauded the move as a victory for the gay rights movement, others critiqued it fiercely, questioning the implications of setting such a precedent for future cases. Some letters to the editor expressed both sarcastic and serious concerns, with one writer humorously suggesting that their pet cat should also qualify for a pension after the owner’s death. The San Francisco Chronicle voiced its reservations, stating that although the recognition of Smith’s situation indicated progress for the gay rights movement, it also set a concerning precedent that could impact taxpayers. The newspaper highlighted the differences between traditional marriage and the relationships that were now being considered for benefits, noting that traditional marital bonds come with legally binding responsibilities and rights that extend beyond personal relationships. Mayor Dianne Feinstein, who had maintained a relatively good rapport with local gay organisations, ultimately vetoed the board's decision. This move highlighted her careful consideration of the political and social climate regarding homosexual rights and the financial implications for the city. Smith's application and the board's initial approval underscored the political clout of the gay community in San Francisco, a factor that the Mayor recognized and addressed in her decision-making process.

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