San Francisco Board of Supervisors pass legislation to establish Irish Cultural District

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — It’s St. Patrick’s Day and in San Francisco, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved establishing an Irish Cultural District.

“A testimony to the strength and depth of the Irish American population in the southwest side of the city. A lot of these families moved here in the 1920s and 30s,” said Liam Reidy, Executive Director of the United Irish Cultural Center.

Decades later, this community is gearing up for a recognition many have been hoping for an Irish Cultural District.

“It’s not just four blocks. It’s kind of the idea that in the Sunset the Irish were here and have come and are sustaining life in the Sunset,” said Jeanne Connolly, Treasurer of the United Irish Cultural Center.

The one behind this legislation is Sunset Supervisor Alan Wong. He presented the legislation to the Board of Supervisors on St. Patrick’s Day.

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“We don’t have one for the Irish community and I think they are deserving of equal recognition. Their history in the city and what they have done to build San Francisco,” said Supervisor Wong.

Supervisor Wong said creating an official district for the Irish community would unlock $240,000 in funding to help the culture thrive and grow.

“What do you hope Supervisors know about what is needed here?” ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter Luz Pena asked.

“I think one of the big things I would like them to know is the amount of programming that we are providing here for the community, whether is youth program or intergeneration we don’t have enough space,” said Reidy.

In the city’s Financial District, for the last 40 years bars on Front Street attract thousands to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

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“It’s just going to be a big party that everybody is invited to leave all your baggage outside, bring all the love into the block and we’re going to have a good time,” said Che Walton, Schroeder’s Manager.

Hearing about the resolution was a big moment.

“It’s a great thing to have. Having a centralized area to celebrate the culture and the contributions that their community made to San Francisco is just a wonderful thing,” said Ben Bleiman, owner of Harrington’s Bar and Grill.

The legislation is hoping to keep the next generation of Irish Americans aware and proud of their roots.

A committee still needs to decide on the district’s boundaries, but it will likely be in the southwest part of the city.