The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss the landmark designation of two significant murals located in the Mission District: the Carnaval mural and the Chata Gutierrez mural. Both murals are situated at the intersection of South Van Ness Avenue and 20 Fourth Street, and their designation was initiated by the Board of Supervisors in March 2023.

The Carnaval mural, painted in 1983 by Daniel Galvez and other artists, is a vibrant representation of the annual Carnaval celebration, which has been a cultural staple in the Mission for over 40 years. This mural not only showcases the rich traditions of the Latinx community but also highlights the contributions of local artists and performers. It is recognized as a cultural asset that embodies the spirit of the Mission District's Pan Latino community.

Adjacent to the Carnaval mural is the Chata Gutierrez mural, created in 2015 by Carlos "Cookie" Gonzalez and youth artists from the Walls of Respect project. This mural honors Chata Gutierrez, a pioneering Latina disc jockey and cultural icon who played a vital role in promoting Latin music and addressing social issues within the community. The mural serves as a tribute to her legacy and the broader contributions of Latinx women in San Francisco.

During the meeting, several community members and advocates spoke passionately about the importance of these murals. They emphasized that the murals not only represent the artistic heritage of the Mission District but also serve as vital historical markers for the Latinx community. Public comments highlighted the murals' roles in preserving cultural identity amid ongoing gentrification and displacement in the area.

The commission members expressed their support for the landmark designation, recognizing the murals as essential components of San Francisco's cultural landscape. They noted the need for preservation efforts to protect these artworks from potential future developments that could obscure or damage them.

Ultimately, the commission unanimously approved the recommendation for landmark designation of both murals, ensuring their protection and continued celebration as integral parts of the Mission District's history and cultural identity. The decision aligns with the city's commitment to preserving cultural diversity and honoring the contributions of the Latinx community in San Francisco.