San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA — Mayor London N. Breed and Supervisor Rafael Mandelman have announced that San Francisco has secured a permanent home for the GLBT Historical Society Museum and Archives in the Castro neighborhood. Legislation will be introduced next Tuesday to convert 2280 Market Street into a full-scale museum, archives, and research center.

The announcement follows years of collaboration between various city offices, non-profit partners, and the GLBT Historical Society. In 2021, Mayor Breed allocated $12.5 million for acquiring a site for an LGBTQ History Museum. In 2022, additional funding of $5.5 million was provided by the State of California through the efforts of Senator Scott Wiener.

Mayor Breed emphasized the significance of this development: "The Castro is the heart of LGBTQ culture in this City and this country, and it is the perfect place for a museum that will preserve and celebrate LGBTQ history, culture, and arts for generations to come." She acknowledged the contributions from various leaders who supported this initiative.

A community celebration marking this milestone is scheduled for Friday at 10 a.m., with participation from city officials and community leaders.

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman praised Mayor Breed's commitment: “Mayor Breed deserves enormous credit for committing budget resources for this acquisition back in 2021.” He expressed confidence in the selected location at 2280 Market Street as an ideal space with potential for future expansion.

Senator Scott Wiener highlighted San Francisco's role in LGBTQ history: “This Museum will ensure future generations can learn from that history for many years to come.”

Roberto Ordeñana, Executive Director of the GLBT Historical Society, remarked on the broader significance: “This investment is more than the purchase of a building; it is about creating a home to share the lessons of LGBTQ and allied history.”

Ken Ikeda, CEO of Community Arts Stabilization Trust (CAST), also expressed support: “It takes a village, and CAST is honored to partner in this much-needed endeavor.”

Cleve Jones acknowledged those involved in making this project possible: “Mayor Breed and Supervisor Mandelman worked hard to make this happen."

Legislation related to entering into a purchase agreement will be introduced on October 1. The Board of Supervisors must approve it before acquisition can proceed. Once acquired, lease agreements with GLBT Historical Society and CAST will be established.

The property at 2280 Market Street includes a two-story building with ample space designated for museum use. Current tenants occupy parts of it but are expected to vacate over time allowing further expansion opportunities.

The Castro district continues evolving as new businesses open or undergo improvements enhancing its vibrant atmosphere—a symbol internationally recognized as representing LGBTQ advocacy freedom expression since becoming one America’s first gay neighborhoods.

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