Mayor Eddie's Newsletter - June 20, 2025
Published on June 20, 2025
Hello South San Francisco Community,
I know it has been a full and emotional couple of weeks. Many in our community are navigating waves of uncertainty, and I want to acknowledge the very real fear and anxiety that some may be feeling. You are not alone—and in South San Francisco, you are seen, valued, and supported.
Earlier this week, misleading photos began circulating online regarding ICE raids in our city, adding to confusion and concern. I urge all residents to seek accurate, verified information, please do not just amplify and reshare or repost on social media without verification and facts. If you witness or hear of immigration-related activity, please contact the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472. This team is trained to verify and respond to reports, ensuring community safety while countering misinformation.
The safety and well-being of every member of our community remains one of our highest priorities. As your mayor, I want to reiterate that South San Francisco stands firm in protecting the constitutional rights and privileges of all people, regardless of religion, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, or immigration status. This is your city—and you belong here.
The California Values Act (SB 54) limits how local police can help with federal immigration enforcement. It helps ensure all people—no matter their immigration status—can safely use public services like schools and hospitals.
South San Francisco proudly stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Immigrants have helped build the heart of our city, and their stories, experiences, and contributions make us stronger. Here, everyone belongs—no matter their immigration status—and we remain committed to safety, dignity, and opportunity for all.
We are committed to fostering a community built on trust, compassion, and mutual respect. That’s why the South San Francisco Police Department (SSFPD) does not participate in immigration enforcement. Our officers:
- Do not ask about immigration status
- Do not enforce civil immigration laws
- Do not collaborate with federal immigration agencies for prosecution
Their focus is community safety, and they work every day to build and maintain trust across all neighborhoods.
As your Mayor—and as a proud immigrant—I remain steadfast in my commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming city where everyone can thrive. Our diversity is one of South San Francisco’s greatest strengths, and we must protect it together. TOGETHER.
Juneteenth Reminders
Yesterday, we commemorated Juneteenth—a powerful reminder of the fight for justice, freedom, and equality. As your mayor, I want to remind you to not lose sight of what this day means, and to continue the celebration together.
Join us for two special events honoring the theme “Freedom – The Future of Hope”:
Juneteenth Author Talk with J.R. Rice & Lee Forester
Thursday, June 26 | 6:30 PM
City Council Chambers
Join us for a moving discussion with authors J.R. Rice (Broken Pencils) and Lee Forester, followed by a book signing and complimentary red velvet cupcakes from Sweet Dreams Bakery in Colma.
Event details
"FREEDOM – THE FUTURE OF HOPE" Juneteenth Art Exhibit
Experience art that honors Black freedom, resilience, and hope for the future.
Opening Weekend
Friday, June 27 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Saturday, June 28 | 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
3rd Floor Gallery Room, Library | Parks and Recreation Center, 901 Civic Campus Way
Gallery Hours
Weekdays, June 30–July 25 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Special Evening: Tuesday, July 22 | Open until 8:00 PM
Closed Friday, July 4
Admission is free.
Let us reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and work together toward a future rooted in freedom, justice, and lasting hope.
Continue Celebrating Pride with Us!
Pride Month is in full swing, and last weekend’s San Mateo County Pride Parade was a beautiful reflection of the love, strength, and solidarity in our community. I was incredibly proud of how our South City community showed up to represent the best of South City. Thank you to everyone younger and older residents, who marched, danced, and showed up with pride alongside me, and Councilmembers Mark Nagales (D-2) and James Coleman (D-4) and SSFUSD Trustee Amy Lam. Thank you to all the organizers for putting this together and all who call South City home who wore their shirts -- your energy lit up the streets and reminded us what inclusion looks like in action.
Here in South San Francisco, Pride is more than a celebration—it’s a commitment to visibility, safety, and belonging for all, every day of the year.
✨ Keep the Celebration Going:
South City PROUD
Saturday, June 28 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Grand Avenue Breezeway (366 Grand Ave)
Our local celebration will continue at our Grand Avenue Breezeway at 366 Grand Avenue! Featuring a live DJ, fashion show, Grand Avenue BINGO, and food from favorite local spots – this event is free, and will provide fun for everyone!
Pride is for everyone. Whether you’re marching, dancing, or simply showing kindness—you are part of what makes this community strong, proud, and beautifully inclusive. Let’s celebrate, South City!
Learn More
Enjoy Your Summer in South City!
Doing a staycation, or have friends and family visiting this summer? We have plenty of things happening in our great city to help you make this summer one to remember.
2025 Summer Learning Challenge
Throughout the summer, both SSF Libraries will be providing free books and summer reading logs for youth age 18 and under. With each completed log, current SSF residents can enter for a chance to win San Francisco Giants tickets or a $1,000 college scholarship! Can't wait to get started? Download and print your log in English or en Español and get started today!
Learn More
Summer Performers at SSF Main and Grand Libraries
Summer is in full swing, and your SSF Library has an exciting lineup of performers for the whole family to enjoy each month! Stop by in June and July for musical performances by Soul 4 Kidz and Aguacate, respectively. We will also be hosting puppet shows, a magic show, an insect discovery lab, and much more! Check out our 2025 Summer Schedule for details.
2025 SSFPL Summer Schedule
UPCOMING EVENTS
There’s so much to experience right here in South San Francisco—and this is just a glimpse! Come join me at upcoming events that bring our community to life. From cultural celebrations to neighborhood gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Explore the full City Calendar at https://www.ssf.net/calendar and stay connected to all that’s happening!
Movie Night in the Park Returns This Summer
- Friday, July 18, 2025 at Orange Memorial Park – Moana 2
- Friday, August 22, 2025 at Martin Elementary School – Votes are in, and we will be viewing Inside Out 2!
Join us for two evenings of free, family-friendly films this summer. In conjunction with our July is Parks & Recreation Month celebration, we will be featuring additional activities prior the film screening in July. These film screenings are FREE for all ages. Films will begin at sundown (approximately 8:15 p.m.).
For more information, visit https://www.ssf.net/PandREvents.
Did You Know South City Offers Adult Open Gym Nights!
Looking to stay active and have fun this summer? Join us for Adult Open Gym at Terrabay on weeknights from June 2 to July 31!
- Mondays – Pickleball
- Tuesdays – Badminton
- Thursdays – Basketball
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, all skill levels are welcome. Online registration is encouraged—visit www.ssf.net/rec-catalog to sign up and view more details. Let’s get moving, South City!
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Get Prepared at the 2025 Disaster Preparedness Day!
Mark your calendars! San Mateo County’s 21st Annual Disaster Preparedness Day is happening on Saturday, August 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the San Mateo County Event Center—and it’s completely free for all ages!
Learn how to keep your family safe before, during, and after a disaster with hands-on demonstrations, emergency resources, and training opportunities. Enjoy fun activities for kids, free hot dogs (while supplies last), and prize giveaways!
Whether it’s earthquakes, wildfires, or other emergencies, preparation is key—and this event is the perfect way to get started.
Learn more: smcgov.org/disasterprepday
Don’t miss it—because being ready makes all the difference.
Stay informed with other City communications! Sign up to receive newsletters from the Library, Parks & Recreation, or get notifications about the Shuttle, construction, and Police bulletins by signing up on the City website.
Remember, you can read this entire newsletter fully in Spanish or Tagalog, or any other language via our website, by tap on the top right corner of the website (for most, the default language will appear as English (United States)). Choose your preferred language in the menu.
Please take care of yourself, and each other.
Mayor Eddie
City of South San Francisco