San Francisco residents overwhelmingly approved of a vote to recall three school board members.
Background: Last year the San Francisco school board voted to rename 44 schools that honored U.S. figures like Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and Senator Dianne Feinstein after the board claimed they were linked to racism and sexism.
The board’s plan was criticized for historical inaccuracies and the school board ultimately dropped it, however it set in motion a recall effort.
What Happened: San Francisco residents sent a message to the school board by voting to recall school board President Gabriela López, Vice President Faauuga Moliga, and Commissioner Alison Collins.
Why: Critics accused the board of pushing progressive politics rather than acting in the best interest of children during the pandemic.
What Residents Say: “The voters of this city have delivered a clear message that the school board must focus on the essentials of delivering a well-run school system above all else,” Breed said in a statement after the vote. “San Francisco is a city that believes in the value of big ideas, but those ideas must be built on the foundation of a government that does the essentials well.” (per Fox News)
What Opponents Say: Those who opposed the recall called it a waste of time and money.
“The city of San Francisco has risen up and said this is not acceptable to put our kids last,” said Siva Raj, a parent who helped launch the recall effort. “Talk is not going to educate our children, it’s action. It’s not about symbolic action, it’s not about changing the name on a school, it is about helping kids inside the school building read and learn math.” (per Fox News)
Why It Matters: San Francisco is one of the country’s most liberal cities, however, Democrats were divided over recalling the school board members.
What Comes Next: Mayor London Breed, who is responsible for appointing new board members to fill the vacancies until another election in November.
