Mourners in San Francisco gathered at City Hall on Wednesday to pay their respects to the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein. She had a profound impact on the city, serving as its first female mayor for a decade and launching her groundbreaking political career there. Feinstein’s body will lie in state in the City Hall rotunda, where elected leaders and city residents alike are expected to say their final goodbyes. The senator passed away on Thursday at her home in Washington, D.C., after battling a series of illnesses.
Feinstein’s tenure as mayor was marked by significant achievements and the shepherding of San Francisco through various challenges. She played a crucial role in addressing the HIV and AIDS crisis, drawing attention to the epidemic at a time when it was being ignored by President Ronald Reagan. Feinstein also secured funding, both federal and private, to preserve the city’s iconic cable cars, preventing their deterioration.
Her leadership extended beyond San Francisco as well. In 1992, she and Barbara Boxer became the first women to represent California in the U.S. Senate, a milestone made possible during what was dubbed the Year of the Woman. Feinstein’s accomplishments inspired countless girls and women, including current San Francisco Mayor London Breed, who recalled looking up to Feinstein when she played in the middle school band that performed at mayoral events.
Feinstein’s impact on San Francisco was deeply felt and will be long remembered. She cared for the city and its residents, even after her political career took her to Washington. She frequently called her successors to address issues such as potholes and trash, offering advice and encouragement along the way.
As mourners gathered at City Hall to pay their respects, there was a sense that San Francisco had lost one of its own. Terrence Riley, a resident, expressed his sadness at Feinstein’s passing, stating that she truly embodied what it meant to be San Francisco. John Konstin Sr., owner of John’s Grill, a favored establishment among city politicians, recounted Feinstein’s dedication to improving the city, explaining how she ordered the removal of unsightly scaffolding within a day.
Feinstein’s casket is expected to arrive at City Hall in the morning, with mourners able to pay their respects throughout the day until 7 p.m. On Thursday, a memorial service will be held outside City Hall, featuring notable speakers such as Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Mayor London Breed, Vice President Kamala Harris, and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. President Joe Biden will also deliver remarks via recorded video.
The passing of Senator Feinstein marks the end of an era for San Francisco, a city she helped shape and guide through numerous challenges. Her legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come.
