DOSW September Newsletter

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we move into the fall, the coming weeks offer important opportunities to celebrate our communities, honor our histories, raise awareness, and come together around issues that impact women, girls, and gender-diverse people across San Francisco.

Latinx Heritage Month is observed from September 15 through October 15, and San Francisco offers many ways to celebrate and recognize the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. 

October is also Filipino American History Month. The Filipino American History Month (FAHM) Planning Committee is hosting a celebration on October 21st at San Francisco City Hall. In addition to music, food and art, the FAHM Planning Committee will be recognizing outstanding Filipino American leaders from the Bay Area.

On October 12th, we recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day. At first light, you can take a ferry to Alcatraz for the annual Annual Sunrise Gathering on Alcatraz Island. Ferries depart at 5 AM, 5:15 AM and 5:30 AM and return by 9 AM. Tickets are required for all passengers.

Later that day, from noon to 4 PM, San Francisco's Indigenous People's Day Celebration will take place at Yerba Buena Gardens, featuring a special performance by Jeremy Dutcher. This free, all-ages event includes music, art, vendors and more. 

October also marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a national month of action to bring awareness to and help end domestic violence. The theme for 2026 is With Survivors, Always with a call to move from awareness to action.

The Department has long supported survivors of domestic violence and will continue to advocate for their safety, stability and well-being. Through the San Francisco Women’s Agenda, we are working alongside law enforcement, City departments, and community organizations to strengthen prevention and education efforts, expand supports and services for survivors, and help create pathways to long-term safety and stability.

Stay tuned to our social channels for details on community events and educational opportunities throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Lastly, we are thrilled to be partnering with California State Controller Malia Cohen and the Human Rights Commission for an event in recognition of National Midwifery Week:

Toward Justice and a Reclamation of Birth
Monday, October 5, 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
UC Law San Francisco Auditorium
198 McAllister Street, San Francisco

Join us for a day of conversation and community centered on maternal health, birth justice, midwifery, and the experiences of women and families.

Together, we will discuss disparities in maternal and birth care, explore needed solutions, and uplift the voices and experiences of those working to improve birth outcomes. California State Controller Malia Cohen, advocates, birth workers, community leaders, and partners will join us, and attendees will have the opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives. 

The event is free, but registration is required. Lunch will be provided. Children are welcome, and a children's play and quiet space will be available in the auditorium. Children must be supervised by an accompanying adult at all times.

Thank you to our partners and supporters: the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, the Department of Public Health and Department of Early Childhood, EMBRACE, Indigenous Justice and community sponsor, the San Francisco Birth Center Foundation.