Celebrating Black History Month in San Francisco 2023
February 2, 2023February marks the start of Black History Month in the U.S. This time was created to commemorate and honor the contributions and adversity of African Americans throughout history. We don’t have to look far to find the many impressive accomplishments of Black men and women in politics, art, science, medicine, sports, and other distinguished fields. In San Francisco, there are several events throughout the month to celebrate so let’s check some out.
More Than A Month at SF Public Library
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Meditation, film, book club, and more! A three-minute walk from 1177 Market and 33 8th at Trinity Place, the San Francisco Public Library is honoring Black History Month through its theme of resistance this year. They are hosting a series of events throughout February, including mediation in the African American Center on Wednesdays and films showcasing Black artists and activists. The library also houses a strong collection of books and essays spotlighting Black voices and stories that are free to the public to rent.
Tour the Museum of the African Diaspora
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The Museum of the African Diaspora is a contemporary art museum in SoMa dedicated to celebrating Black culture, inspiring learning, and encouraging challenging discussions. A short MUNI ride away for our residents at 1188 Mission and 1190 Mission at Trinity Place, the MoAD offers free admission every Second Saturday, courtesy of Kaiser Permanente. One of their current exhibits highlights the work of 15 contemporary fashion photographers and is the first and only West Coast exhibition of The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion.
Street Murals Amplifying Black ChangeMakers and Voices
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One of the many wonderful perks of living in San Francisco is the abundance of street art we can admire around The City. Many of these murals highlight Black viewpoints and stories that honor the contributions and adversity Black people have historically had to face. The Inspiration Mural on the exterior walls of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center tells the Black history of San Francisco with an array of portraits of community leaders. Clarion Alley in the Mission hosts many art pieces including ones created by Black artists. This colorful alley is only a 10-minute walk from our apartments at 230 Dolores and 240 Dolores!
Black Joy Parade and Festival
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The category is JOY! In its 6th annual parade, this family-friendly event celebrates positivity and delight in the Black community. Hosted in downtown Oakland, the Black Joy Parade and Festival is set to feature local artists, food and drink vendors, live performances, and more. The Black Joy Parade is open to all to attend and will be held on Sunday, February 26. BART gets our residents at Trinity Place in Oakland in under 25 minutes!
Reparations: An All-Black Drag Show and Dance Party
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Reparations is an all-black drag show that has been voted 3x as best in the Bay! The idea was born from the Black Lives Matter uprisings across the US and the show emphasizes how important it is for Black arts to be supported every day. This colorful party has become a monthly fixture at Oasis, a popular nightclub in SoMa, moments away from 1188 Mission and 1190 Mission. Free tickets are available for BIPOC trans and disabled people to attend.
Landmarks in The City: Mary Ellen Pleasant Memorial Park
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The smallest park in San Francisco! Mary Ellen Pleasant was a civil rights activist and entrepreneur who has been earnestly known as the “Mother of Civil Rights in California“. Pleasant moved to SF in 1852 and grew to become a millionaire and philanthropist, using her fortune to bring escaped slaves to the City and get them started in new jobs and homes. The Memorial Park is at the site of the Pleasant/Bell mansion and was established in her memory. Look out for the plaque and six enourmous ecalyptus trees that tower above 1699 Octavia St, a short walk away from our apartments at Clay Park Towers and 2000 Broadway.
Support Black-Owned Small Businesses and Restaurants
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Black History Month is a special time to honor the Black community and one of the easiest ways to do that is by supporting Black-owned businesses during February (and all year long). Rize Up Bakery was founded by Azikiwee Anderson and hopes to inspire young Black bakers to think outside the box. You can find his delicious loaves at the North Beach Farmers Market, moments away from our apartments at 2140 Taylor and 350 Union. Tastebuds is owned and operated by two SF natives who wanted to create a space for the community to enjoy delicious food and great energy. Luckily for our residents at 422 9th Ave and 430 9th Ave, this restaurant is within walking distance away!
