John,

For all of us getting through the last days of 2020 and this lockdown during the holidays, it can be hard to see the bright spots or the end in sight. But there are glimmers of hope in the near distance. I can see it getting a little brighter every day, and I’m meeting the year’s end and the beginning of 2021 with a renewed sense of hope for what lies ahead. As the vaccine becomes widespread and we get this virus under control, I know this City will rise up and be better and stronger than ever before.

2020 was a year of resilience where San Franciscans came together as a community to help one another like never before. Never in my lifetime have I witnessed an outpouring of support and selflessness as I did since we announced our first Shelter in Place policy in March. You rose to meet the challenge of keeping yourself, your family and your neighbors safe, while contributing funds, kindness and hard work in support of those hit hardest by this pandemic. I know it hasn’t been easy for anyone, and there have been real tough moments, but I couldn’t be more proud to have the honor of serving as Mayor of this great city whose generosity towards others and commitment to safeguarding the public health has been a shining example for all.

2020 was a year of rediscovering our family and friends, our health, and the community that surrounds us.The pandemic taught many of us to re-examine our priorities, to focus our energy on what truly matters to each of us. We re-introduced ourselves to our neighbors on the many Slow Streets throughout the city, safely enjoying walking, biking, scootering and skating. We fully enjoyed the fresh air of our City’s incredible parks, we took up new hobbies, and we invested in our health. The last few weeks, I’ve been taking long walks every day not only to get exercise, but to see the amazing holiday decorations everyone has put out this year to brighten our neighborhoods.

2020 was the year that we elected our new President and Vice President, and discovered the COVID-19 vaccine. After four long years of living in what felt like suspended reality, next year on January 20th, we will be back on solid ground where fact is truth and our government works to serve the American people, not the occupant of the White House. And we will continue to wear our masks, social distance, and wash our hands as the COVID-19 vaccine begins to help eradicate the virus. 

There is so much to look forward to in 2021. Here’s to a brighter future informed by the challenges and lessons learned from this pandemic. Let’s keep up the hard work and stay safe and apart for just a little bit longer. We are almost there! There truly is a light at the end of the tunnel and we will get there together. 

I wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday.

Sincerely,

Mayor London Breed