In a vibrant display of community spirit and cultural pride, San Francisco County officials gathered to discuss the landmark designation of two iconic murals located in the heart of the Mission District. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, highlighted the significance of the Carnival and Chata Gutierrez murals, both of which celebrate the rich contributions of the Latinx community to the city’s cultural tapestry.

The Carnival mural, painted in 1983 by artist Danielle Galvez, is a striking 75-foot by 24-foot tribute to the annual carnival parade, a cherished tradition that has brought together Latinx performers and residents for over four decades. It depicts various pan-Latino businesses and cultural institutions, serving as a vibrant reminder of the community's heritage. Meanwhile, the Chata Gutierrez mural, created in 2015 by Carlos Cookie Gonzalez and a team of young artists, honors the legacy of Chata Gutierrez, the first Latina disc jockey for KPU 88.5. Gutierrez was instrumental in introducing generations to the joy of Latin music through her long-running radio program, Conclave.

During the meeting, city officials and community advocates expressed their strong support for the murals' landmark status, emphasizing their artistic value and cultural significance. Supervisor Ronan, who spearheaded the initiative, urged the board to recognize these murals as vital representations of the Mission District's Latinx community. "Both of these murals represent and celebrate the cultural contributions of San Francisco's Latinx community," she stated, underscoring the need for formal recognition.

The Historic Preservation Commission had previously reviewed the proposed designations and unanimously recommended the murals for landmark status, citing their high artistic value and their role in the community arts movement. The commission's findings were met with enthusiastic public support, with many community members voicing their appreciation for the murals' historical importance.

As the meeting progressed, artist Daniel Galvez shared his personal connection to the Carnival mural, recounting how he engaged with local residents and businesses to capture the essence of the Mission District in his work. "Real people from the neighborhood, real businesses, the colorful buildings that make up the Mission District," he reflected, highlighting the mural's deep roots in the community.

The discussions culminated in a call for continued support for the preservation of these cultural landmarks, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the artistic and historical narratives they embody. As the board prepares to move forward with the recommendations, the community remains hopeful that these murals will receive the recognition they deserve, safeguarding their legacy for years to come.