SF appeals board rejects trans activists bid to reclaim site of Comptons Cafeteria riots

The San Francisco Board of Appeals denied an appeal from transgender activists aiming to reclaim the historically significant site at 111 Taylor St. , now operated by the Geo Group as a re-entry facility for formerly incarcerated individuals. The site was pivotal during the Compton's Cafeteria Riot of 1966, a key moment in the trans rights movement. Activist Chandra Laborde argued that the facility's operations contradict the spirit of the site's history, asserting that the restrictions on residents are not aligned with its legacy of resistance against police violence. Board member Rick Swig emphasized that the ruling focused solely on land use and did not address broader social justice issues.

He also encouraged ongoing investigations into complaints regarding the facility's conditions. The Geo Group's operations have faced scrutiny, with accusations of inhumane conditions at their facilities. Supporters present at the meeting called for action, questioning when change would occur. They were advised to bring their concerns to the Board of Supervisors for further advocacy.