San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA — Today, Mayor London N. Breed issued the following statement on Juneteenth:

"Juneteenth marks a day not just to commemorate the end of slavery but to symbolize the enduring fight for true freedom across the United States. For generations, San Francisco has honored the holiday with the longest-running Juneteenth celebration of any major city in the country. Still, while joyful festivities are important, today means much more than that.

"It means remaining committed to the work we are doing right now to support our community. I am so proud that we have Historically Black Colleges and University students here right now in San Francisco laying the groundwork for a future HBCU campus here. I am proud of how we’ve helped black families purchase homes and supported community organizations that are changing people’s lives. How we have seen 200 black owned businesses open under our work. That is real and substantive change.

"Juneteenth is also a time for us to recognize the perseverance of Black San Franciscans. With our unbreakable spirit, we helped nourish the City’s innovative and creative soul and, though still working towards equality, paved the way for our reputation as the country’s center for racial and social justice.

"So today, let us honor the sacrifices of those who came before by continuing their legacy of fighting for and delivering change."