In a staunch response to the Trump administration’s controversial proposal to deploy the National Guard to San Francisco, local Black faith leaders are rallying against what they deem an unacceptable and dangerous suggestion. Prominent figures from the Third Baptist Church, along with other Bay Area faith leaders, gathered to voice their opposition to the notion of federal troops being sent into the city.
During a press conference, Reverends Amos Brown and Devon Jerome Crawford articulated that interfaith leaders have actively been engaging with the mayor’s office, drafting letters to express their concerns about the potential deployment. “The Bay will not bow, not to hatred, not to fear, not to presidents or governors,” asserted Rev. Crawford, emphasizing the community’s resilience against such threats. They labeled the proposed presence of the National Guard as illegal, warning that it poses a significant existential threat to marginalized communities.
Rev. Brown criticized President Trump for promoting divisive tactics through what he described as “racialized politicking,” which relies on intimidation and threats. The clergy also took aim at Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, who had previously shown support for the idea of bringing in the National Guard to address concerns over public safety following the Dreamforce event. They condemned Benioff’s endorsement, linking it to a broader narrative that puts profits ahead of the needs of the community, particularly people of color.
Following widespread backlash, Benioff later retracted his comments regarding the National Guard, stating on social media that his initial remarks stemmed from concern for public safety during the event. He expressed regret for any alarm his comments may have caused. However, the pastors deemed his apology insufficient, insisting that genuine support for programs benefiting communities of color would serve as a more meaningful gesture.
Amidst concerns of rising crime rates and staffing shortages within the San Francisco Police Department, Benioff also pledged a donation of $1 million aimed at improving the agency’s recruitment efforts. Yet, the faith leaders argued that over-policing and military intervention are not viable solutions to the issues of crime and homelessness, which they believe are systemic rather than localized problems.
Rev. Crawford pointedly remarked, “The idea that we have to be overpoliced and dominate folks in order to find a solution or incarcerate our way towards peace is absurd.” Reflecting on the current political climate, he noted that Third Baptist Church serves as a sanctuary for all, offering refuge during these unsettling times. Rev. Brown mentioned he has been in ongoing discussions with city officials regarding the potential implications of the administration’s threats, ready to mobilize should the situation escalate further.
