SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass legislation establishing the San Francisco Reparations Fund, marking a significant step toward advancing the City’s commitment to addressing the historic and ongoing harms experienced by Black San Franciscans.
The African American Reparations Advisory Committee was convened by the City to examine the historic and ongoing impacts of systemic discrimination, displacement, and exclusion experienced by Black San Franciscans. In 2023, following extensive public engagement, research, and testimony, the Committee produced more than one hundred recommendations in a San Francisco Reparations Plan aimed at repair, restitution, and long term community investment. The establishment of the Reparations Fund provides the necessary infrastructure to move from recommendations to implementation in a responsible and accountable manner.
“The passage of this ordinance moves San Francisco from apology to action. For years, Black San Franciscans have been clear that recognition without resources is not enough. Passing the reparations fund will now allow for individuals, foundations, businesses and communities to donate their own resources towards funding recommendations developed by the African American Reparations Advisory Committee here in San Francisco,” said Supervisor Shamann Walton. “This would be the first time a city in California actually spent money towards achieving reparations for Black people. I am proud of the work that has been done to get us here, and will continue to fight until we right the wrongs of the past.”
Supervisors Chyanne Chen, Rafael Mandelman, Connie Chan, Jackie Fielder, and Bilal Mahmood are co-sponsors.
The ordinance does not authorize automatic expenditures. Any use of funds will remain subject to established City processes, oversight, and approval requirements. The San Francisco Human Rights Commission will oversee the Reparations Fund, providing independent accountability and ensuring that all activities align with the recommendations of the African American Reparations Advisory Committee, as well as existing City fiscal controls, reporting requirements, and public transparency standards.
In 2023, the Board of Supervisors issued a formal apology to Black San Franciscans, acknowledging the City’s role in policies and practices that caused lasting harm. Today’s action builds on that acknowledgment by establishing a clear, accountable framework to support reparative efforts.
The ordinance now moves to the Mayor’s desk for consideration.
