Immigrant Rights Commission honors cultural organizations at San Francisco awards ceremony

The San Francisco County Immigrant Rights Commission held a significant awards ceremony on July 4, 2025, recognizing outstanding contributions from various community organizations dedicated to preserving cultural heritage and advocating for immigrant rights. The event celebrated the achievements of four notable organizations, each with a rich history of service and cultural celebration.

The ceremony commenced with heartfelt remarks from the commission, highlighting the importance of community involvement and the impact of volunteerism. The first award was presented to Carnaval San Francisco, a vibrant multicultural celebration that has been a staple in the Mission District for over 40 years. The executive director, Rodrigo Duran, expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the event's role in empowering immigrant voices and preserving cultural traditions.

Next, the Nihon Machi Street Fair was honored for its 50 years of celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in Japantown. The fair, which began in 1973, aims to provide leadership opportunities for young people while honoring the cultural heritage of the area. Executive director Grace Hiroki accepted the award, reflecting on the fair's mission to foster community and cultural pride.

The Pistan Parade and Festival, celebrating its 30th anniversary, was also recognized. Founded in response to the displacement of Filipino families in the South of Market neighborhood, the festival aims to honor Filipino heritage and empower the community. Al Perez, president of the Filipino American Arts Exposition, accepted the award, highlighting the festival's role in educating the public about Filipino history and culture.

The San Francisco Italian Heritage Parade, the longest-running Italian heritage parade in the United States, was acknowledged for its contributions to the North Beach community. Paul Tonelli, president of the parade, shared insights into the parade's history and its significance in celebrating Italian American culture.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Vera Hale Champion of Justice Award to Tom Ryan of the San Francisco Labour Council. Ryan was recognized for his advocacy work supporting immigrant workers and his efforts to create opportunities for marginalized communities. He emphasized the importance of inclusion and empowerment in driving meaningful change.

The event not only celebrated the achievements of these organizations but also served as a reminder of the vital role that cultural celebrations play in fostering community spirit and resilience in the face of challenges. Attendees were encouraged to continue supporting these initiatives and to participate in upcoming events that celebrate the rich diversity of San Francisco.