#castroneighborhood

[westmontsf]

#TBT The Castro: San Francisco’s Most Soulful Spot

by Bryan Briones, Caroline Vasquez, and Chloe Scafiddi

The Castro District, one of the most well-known areas in the city displaying LGBTQ+ pride, is known for being a safe place, promoting acceptance and love.

Prominent attractions in the Castro include Hamburger Mary’s, Dog Eared Books, GLBT Museum, and the Castro Theater. These vibrant spots are well known hubs of this compact neighborhood.

Although the area is considered a safe haven for all its residents and is accepting of all ethnic and gender backgrounds, the Castro is primarily comprised of white, older, gay males.

Interestingly, the main street of the Castro was named after Jose Castro, a prominent Mexican leader who opposed the United States rule of California (known as Alta California at the time).

The current neighborhood started out as Eureka Valley, a working-class neighborhood, mostly comprised of white Irish. This strong community started developing in the mid 20th century following WW2, when all those who identified as “homosexual” were dishonorably discharged due to their sexual orientation. Most of these soldiers fled to San Francisco to find solidarity and a safe community. 

The GLBT museum strongly acknowledges “the importance of LGBTQ history for building community and promoting connection.” The Rainbow Honor Walk has dedicated plaques around the area to show off all those who were instrumental in building the LGBTQ+ cause and fighting for equality.

Locals said they felt the Castro was a safe space that allowed them to be truly  themselves and ultimately join a like-minded community. However, they also pointed out a few places for improvement. For example, the Castro could do better addressing the needs of the homeless youth flocking to the neighborhood, many of whom are LGBTQ+.

(edited by Karen Andrews)

[jo3danny]

Wine night and game night in the castro last night. 🍷 #castroneighborhood #californiaboy #mondaymood #latenight (at Castro District, San Francisco)