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The Women's Building: A Beacon of Empowerment

Empowering women since 1979, the Women's Building in San Francisco's Mission District is a vibrant hub for resources, community, and social justice.

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The Women's Building in San Francisco's Mission District is a historic community center dedicated to women's rights, social justice, and gender equality. Housed in a striking building adorned with the vibrant MaestraPeace mural, it serves as a hub for resources, programs, and events that empower women and their families.

A brief summary to Women's Building

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Take time to admire the MaestraPeace mural on the building's exterior, a powerful tribute to women's contributions throughout history.
  • Check the Women's Building's website for a calendar of events, workshops, and programs open to the public.
  • Consider visiting during daytime hours for added comfort while exploring the area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Women's Building is accessible via BART and Muni. Take BART to the 16th Street Mission Station, then walk north for approximately 5 blocks on Mission Street to 18th Street, then turn right and walk 0.2 miles. Several Muni bus lines also serve the area, including the 14, 22, 26, 33, 49 and J Church. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.

  • Walking

    From the heart of the Mission District (e.g., Dolores Park), walk east on 18th Street. The Women's Building will be on your left, between Valencia and Guerrero Streets. The walk is relatively flat and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Be aware of your surroundings, especially during evening hours.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short ride from downtown or other nearby neighborhoods to the Women's Building will typically cost between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and demand. Taxi fares in San Francisco start at $4.15, with an additional $0.65 for each additional one-fifth of a mile. Note that there may be an airport surcharge of $5.50.

Unlock the Best of Women's Building

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Discover more about Women's Building

The Women's Building, located in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District, stands as a testament to the power of women's collective action and a vibrant symbol of the city's commitment to social justice. Since 1979, this women-led community space has been a vital resource for women and their families, offering a wide range of services, programs, and advocacy initiatives. The building itself is a landmark, instantly recognizable by the breathtaking MaestraPeace mural that graces its exterior. Painted in 1994 by seven women artists, the mural celebrates the contributions of women throughout history and across the globe. Its colorful panels depict influential figures like Rigoberta Menchú, Audre Lorde, and Georgia O'Keeffe, serving as a constant source of inspiration and a powerful visual statement of the building's mission. The mural underwent a complete renovation in 2012, ensuring its vibrant colors and powerful message will endure for years to come. Inside, the Women's Building provides a safe and welcoming space for women to connect, learn, and access essential resources. It houses numerous non-profit organizations that offer services such as legal assistance, health and wellness programs, and educational workshops. The building also serves as a venue for community events, meetings, and celebrations, fostering a sense of belonging and collective empowerment. The Women's Building has a rich history, evolving from a German Turnverein hall in the early 20th century to a center for Norwegian social activities before becoming the home of the San Francisco Women's Center. In its early years, the Women's Building faced challenges, including arson and a pipe bomb attack. Despite these obstacles, the organization persevered, transforming the building into a thriving hub for women's activism and community support. Today, the Women's Building welcomes over 25,000 visitors each year, continuing its legacy of empowering women and promoting social justice in San Francisco and beyond.

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