San Francisco designates Japanese YWCA Issei Women's Building as historic landmark

In a significant step towards preserving San Francisco's rich cultural heritage, the city’s Board of Supervisors convened to discuss the landmark designation of the Japanese YWCA Issei Women's Building, located at 1830 Sutter Street. This historic site, recognized for its deep-rooted connections to the Japanese American community and various civil rights movements, is poised to receive formal recognition under Article 10 of the planning code.

As the meeting unfolded, members of the Board expressed their enthusiasm for the proposal, with several supervisors, including Supervisors Peskin and Chan, eagerly volunteering to co-sponsor the ordinance. Their support underscored the building's remarkable history, which dates back to its establishment as the first independent Japanese YWCA in the United States, specifically designed for Issei women.

Frances McMillan from the planning department presented the Historic Preservation Commission's unanimous recommendation for the building's designation. She highlighted its significance not only as a center for Japanese American women but also as a pivotal location for the African American civil rights movement and LGBTQ rights activism. The building served as a meeting place for the San Francisco chapter of the Congress on Racial Equality and hosted the first convention of the Mattachine Society, a pioneering LGBTQ organization.

Community leaders, including Cathy Inamasu, Karen Kai, and Donna Graves, passionately spoke about the building's importance. Inamasu, representing Nihomachi Little Friends, emphasized the ongoing commitment to preserving the building's historical integrity and its role in the community. Kai noted that this landmarking would be a tribute to the Issei women who fought for their place in history, while Graves pointed out the building's broader significance in the context of civil rights struggles across various communities.

The discussion also touched on the current challenges facing Japantown, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising anti-Asian sentiment. Supervisors stressed the need for continued support and preservation efforts to ensure that the cultural identity of Japantown remains intact.

As the meeting concluded, the Board recognized the importance of this landmark designation not just as a celebration of the past, but as a vital step towards fostering a more inclusive future for all communities in San Francisco. The Japanese YWCA Issei Women's Building stands as a testament to resilience, activism, and the rich tapestry of stories that define the city.