Activists demand justice for Banco Brown at San Francisco board meeting

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting on April 16, 2025, was marked by passionate public comments addressing the recent death of Banko Brown, a young Black trans man killed by a security guard at a local Walgreens. The meeting featured a series of speakers who expressed their outrage and grief over the incident, calling for accountability and justice.

The session began with a speaker condemning what they described as "organized violence" against marginalized communities, demanding that city leaders take action to protect residents. This sentiment was echoed by Leah McGeever, who criticized the board for their perceived lack of empathy and support for Black, homeless, and trans individuals. She expressed her frustration with the board's policies, stating that they often contradict their stated support for these communities.

Several speakers highlighted the circumstances surrounding Brown's death, emphasizing that he was unarmed and simply seeking food. They criticized the decision to drop charges against the security guard involved, arguing that such actions reflect a broader systemic failure to protect vulnerable populations. One speaker recounted their personal experiences with racial profiling and the lack of safety for Black youth in the city, urging the board to prioritize community needs over profit.

The emotional testimonies continued as speakers shared their connections to Brown and the impact of his loss on the community. They demanded that Walgreens be held accountable for hiring armed security and called for a reevaluation of safety measures in stores. The recurring phrase "Justice for Banko Brown" resonated throughout the meeting, underscoring the collective grief and anger felt by the community.

As the meeting progressed, speakers urged the board to take concrete actions to address the issues raised, including providing housing and support for marginalized youth. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency, as community members insisted that their voices be heard and that justice be served.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a platform for community members to express their pain and demand accountability from city leaders. The discussions highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized groups in San Francisco and the need for systemic change to ensure their safety and well-being. The board's response to these demands will be closely watched as the community continues to seek justice for Banko Brown and others like him.