San Francisco, CA — Mayor London N. Breed today swore in Vanita Louie and Larry Griffin to the Recreation and Park Commission, the seven-member body charged with setting the Recreation and Park Department policies. Establishing the guidelines by which the Recreation and Park Department operates, the Commission is responsible for the over 220 parks, playgrounds, and open spaces throughout San Francisco and two outside the City limits.

“It is an honor to swear in Vanita and Larry to the Rec and Park Commission,” said Mayor Breed. “It is critical to have diverse representation and valued leadership in our city government and on our city commissions. I am confident that Vanita and Larry will continue advocating on behalf of their communities while guiding one of the best and most loved parks departments in the country.”

Vanita Louie, a well-known Chinatown advocate, and former president of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, is a retired small business owner with over 25-years of experience in the hospitality industry. In 2017, Louie received the Outstanding Community Service Award from Gum Moon Women’s Residence Center.

“It's a privilege and an honor to be the voice of the communities and the voters and to serve as a commissioner with Rec and Park,” says Louie. “The parks, open space, and playgrounds of San Francisco are like gems in a jewel box which make up a large part of this beautiful city.”

Larry Griffin, a long-time labor advocate, is the former Western Area Vice President at the International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the Booker T. Washington Community Service Center in the Fillmore District. Additionally, he serves as a delegate for the San Francisco Labor Council and the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades.

“Our world-class parks system is the great equalizer, it is enjoyed and cherished by all backgrounds,” said Griffin. “Our parks are a 10-minute walk from most homes in the City. It is an honor to be appointed to this incredible body that is entrusted with keeping our parks on par with the world's best!”

“I am thrilled to welcome Commissioners Louie and Griffin, two passionate advocates for parks and open space,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “Access to green space is not a luxury, it is absolutely essential to the health of our communities. We are fortunate to have commissioners who prioritize the wellbeing of all San Franciscans.”

Mayor Breed swore in Vanita Louie and Larry Griffin at Lincoln Park in the Richmond District, joined by invited family members, Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg, current Recreation and Park Commissioners, and members of the Board of Supervisors.

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