LGBT community honored at Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast

The late Harvey Milk, a civil rights leader for the LGBT community, was honored Friday morning at a breakfast here in the valley.

More than 900 valley residents celebrated his memory at the Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The fundraiser is aimed at supporting justice and equality for all.

This year’s “Hero Award” was given to the parents of a 9-year-old daughter who was born deaf. After gaining hearing and the ability to speak, announced, he identified as a boy.

“I think we were recognized with the award because we had the courage to come out and be visible and share our story with the world. It’s not easy to share a story like this, especially when you’re dealing with a young child who many will attack us for allowing him to be who he is at this young of age,” said mother Hillary Whittington.

Proceeds from the breakfast benefit Coachella Valley youth, through gay-straight alliance organizations and LGBT youth programs.