PFLAG National Mourns the Passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein

WASHINGTON—Sept. 29, 2023, Today, we learned of the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California. Sen. Feinstein was not only the state’s longest serving senator, she was also a key participant in LGBTQ+ history, having served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors with Harvey Milk until his death by assassination on Nov. 27, 1978. She was the first to find the first openly gay elected official’s body, and often credited that horrific experience with her fervent quest to end gun violence and enact gun control in the U.S. A statement from Brian K. Bond, Chief Executive Officer of PFLAG National follows.

Brian K. Bond, CEO of PFLAG National, said: 

“Our hearts are heavy today, learning of the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Her role in American history is unmistakably intertwined with LGBTQ+ history and the assassination of Supervisor Harvey Milk. She had been a constant and strident advocate for LGBTQ+ rights ever since, supporting marriage equality, military service for LGBTQ+ people, the Equality Act, and so much more. PFLAG families in California and across the country mourn the loss of this stalwart advocate who worked to make our laws just and equitable so every LGBTQ+ person could live with dignity and respect.”