Black and White Images of the Struggle Against Racism in the Castro

On Friday, October 1, hundreds of people marched through San Francisco’s Castro District to “Speak Out Against Racism & Discrimination and Stand Up for Inclusion.” This action was in response to a recent increase of reported acts of racist and sexist discrimination at commercial establishments in the area, a center for the Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans community.

Participants gathered at the LGBT Center where speakers addressed instances of bias, and were joined by S.F. Supervisor Tom Ammiano. This was followed by a march down Market St., led by African American LGBT members of Black Rap.

As the march arrived at Harvey Milk Plaza, members of the S.F. Gay Men’s Chorus and the Transcendence Choir greeted the protestors. S.F. Supervisor Bevan Dufty and Human Rights Commissioner Cecilia Chung also addressed the assembled crowd.

The march proceeded to the S.F. Badlands bar, an establishment under investigation for discriminatory practices. At the Pendulum bar, marchers left candles and flowers in memory of a patron who recently died there.

The event wound up with a street party to celebrate a vision of unity and diversity in the LGBT community’s struggle to end bigotry, racism, and inequality.

The action was sponsored by Black Rap, And Castro For All, ANSWER, Asian Pacific Islander Queer Women and Transgender Coalition, the Harvey Milk Democratic Club, the SF LGBT Pride Celebration Committee, and leaders of the Gay Asian Pacific Alliance. It was co-sponsored by more than 30 organizations.