The Planning Department stands with the Black community

San Francisco Planning stands in solidarity in the fight against systemic racism, white supremacy, and the historic oppression of the Black Community. Black Lives Matter.

Racial equity is not just the absence of discrimination; it is the presence of proactive measures and fair systems that treat people of all races equally and that result in equal outcomes.

The Department acknowledges and apologizes for the history of land use policies and zoning practices that have contributed to systemic harm, racial segregation, poverty, and environmental injustice toward specific racial groups that we still experience today. We are taking appropriate steps to reflect collectively on our work within this diverse city. We intend to learn not only from the impacts of our past, but how we can best move forward to correct those impacts in a manner that promotes equity and inclusivity.

In November 2019, the Planning Commission adopted Phase One of the Department’s Racial and Social Equity Action Plan which was designed to guide Department and Commission actions as we strengthen our internal processes and practices to advance organizational equity. The Planning Commission has since directed the Department to develop Phase II of the Racial and Social Equity Action Plan in collaboration with the new Office of Racial Equity, other City agencies, the Mayor’s Office, the Board of Supervisors, and community stakeholders. This work will carefully examine and address legacy racial and social inequities and disparities in the Department’s programs and policies and develop bold and forward-thinking strategies to advance racial and social equity in San Francisco. The Plan will be a key component of the City’s progress toward inclusive neighborhoods that provide the opportunity to lead fulfilling, meaningful, and healthy lives, public spaces that reflect the past, present, and future of San Franciscans, and a city where a person’s race does not determine their prospects and success.

On June 11, 2020 the San Francisco Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 20738 centering the Planning Department's work program and resource allocation on racial and social equity. Read the full document here. 

Racial violence and injustice have no place in our society, and we stand together with all who seek peace, equity, and justice. We are inspired by so many in our city and those across the country who are using their voices for demanding change. We hear you, and we support you.