Back in Love Again

It’s been a while since I’ve been in love with you. 12 years ago when we first met, you were new and exciting. You gave me hope and inspired my creative ventures. You introduced me to flavors I had never had, environments I had never been in and experiences that shaped me into the woman I am today. But over time you changed. The way you traded natives for greed and gentrification was disgusting to me. You catered to the temporary visitors instead of taking care of the ones who put you on the map. It was as if everything I thought you were was disappearing. The warm welcome I felt so many years ago had been replaced by cold hands that continued to make me feel alienated because I wasn’t in a certain tax bracket. 

But last Saturday felt different, you felt different. Thanks to Lovers Lane, I fell back in love with who you really are, and not what the ones in North face puffer vest want you to be. While walking towards Balmy Alley, I could hear a DJ playing Debbie Deb, and see a crowd of all ages dancing to “When I Hear Music”. Surrounded by classic lowriders was a block party that felt like a love letter to local artists, food and cultura. There were so many amazing artists like Billy Blaze and NP93 showcasing their work. ASÚKAR and Mamas Papas were there serving soul healing food. And a vast array of entertainment and activities from reptiles, face painting, fortune tellers, live performances and everything in between.

Balmy Alley, Mission District

Founders Alfredo Uribe and Lucia Gonzalez Ippolit, who is an artistic legend within the Mission district, created this event in 2021 to celebrate togetherness after a time of great isolation in 2020. According to their website, knowing that deep healing and connection happens with greater ease in a community surrounded by art, music and food. Lovers Lane was created as a celebration of love within ourselves, our neighborhood, the city and the people in it. 

Lovers Lane reminded me of what you have always been about. Culture, love, community and unity. People were living in the moment instead of on their phones. Strangers danced and sang love songs together. The Mission community felt like one big family, and I’m honored I got to witness such a magical moment. I got hit by cupid's arrow that day. And feel inspired to seek out San Francisco's true history, culture and communities.