Jose Sarria Gets a Street in His Name in the Castro. San Francisco, California

“When did the first openly gay man have a street named after him in San Francisco? The answer, surprisingly, was not until May 25th this year. Before then, no open lesbian/gay person had that honor. Jose Sarria””also known as the Absolute Empress I of San Francisco; Jose, The Widow Norton; founder of the International Court System””was honored with the naming of a street after him (now called Jose Sarria Court) and the placing of an impressive plaque at the site. This historic event was a tribute to a man who has spent a lifetime dedicated to equality and justice for all persons since before Stonewall. The event was held at 16th & Market, near the Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Branch of the San Francisco Library.

There were speakers from various groups including political and Imperial Court members. It was sponsored by Supervisor Bevan Dufty, SF Dept. of Public Works, and the SF and International Court Systems. An array of a dozen flags was displayed””ranging from the American flag to the rainbow flag to the Mexican flag to the Missing in Action/Prisoner of War flag. The wall of the library had a huge rainbow bunting draped across it. The event began with the SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band playing John Phillip Sousa marching tunes, followed by the signature “California Here I Come,” as well as “San Francisco” and “If They Could See Me Now.” Alexander Hamilton Post 448 did the color guard and flag raising, with City Treasurer Jose Cisneros and Police Chief Heather Fong leading “The Pledge of Allegiance.” Then Sean Martinfield sang “The Star Spangled Banner.” The crowd politely giggled upon hearing the opening phrase, “Jose, can you see?””

Stumble it! | |