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Committee recommends commemorative 'Dr. Howard Thurman Way' at 2020 Stockton
Summary
The committee unanimously recommended a resolution to add the commemorative street name Dr. Howard Thurman Way at 2020 Stockton, following multi-generational testimony from family, church leaders and community groups describing Thurman’s local civil-rights and interfaith legacy.
The Land Use and Transportation Committee voted 3–0 on June 17 to recommend that the Board of Supervisors approve a commemorative street-name designation recognizing Dr. Howard Thurman at 2020 Stockton Street.
President Aaron Peskin introduced the resolution and framed Thurman as an author, theologian and educator whose leadership included co-founding the Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples in San Francisco in 1944. Family members and community leaders testified in support: Anton Wong, Thurman’s grandson, recounted the family’s efforts to secure neighborhood backing and volunteers; Chuck Collins, former chair of the Howard Thurman Educational Trust, and Rev. Dorsey Blake described Thurman’s teaching and local ties. "The church remains active today," Wong said, and speakers described the 2020 Stockton location as integral to Thurman's legacy.
Petitions and letters of support were referenced, including a letter from Morehouse College’s president and neighborhood organizations such as the Telegraph Hill Dwellers and Russian Hill Neighbors. Several speakers noted that the Fellowship Church building was designated a city landmark in 2023, and described the street marker as an extension of those preservation efforts.
Peskin moved to send the resolution to the full Board with a "most positive recommendation." The committee recorded aye votes from Vice Chair Dean Preston, Member Aaron Peskin and Chair Myrna Melgar; the matter will appear on the Board agenda on June 25, 2024.
Next steps: The Board of Supervisors will consider formal adoption of the commemorative designation at its June 25 meeting.
