San Francisco Residents Demand Mayor's Removal Over Alleged Harassment of Black Residents

Protesters to hold press conference and speak out at Civil Service Commission over mayor's actions

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:00am by Ben Kaplan

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San Francisco residents, unionists, and workers are calling for the removal of Mayor Daniel Lurie, alleging he has personally harassed and bullied homeless and low-income Black residents, including an incident where his security detail allegedly assaulted a man. They claim Lurie's actions violate civil service rules and are a threat to public health and safety.

Why it matters

The case highlights tensions over homelessness, gentrification, and policing in San Francisco, with critics accusing the mayor of unfairly targeting vulnerable residents. It also raises questions about the mayor's authority and adherence to civil service regulations.

The details

Protesters allege that Mayor Lurie has personally targeted homeless and low-income Black residents, particularly in the Tenderloin neighborhood, demanding they move on. They claim his SFPD security detail was involved in an altercation that led to injuries to a man named Tony Sheravaughn Phillips. Protesters say Lurie's actions violate civil service rules prohibiting employee violence in the workplace and that he should be immediately removed from office.

  • A press conference is scheduled for March 17, 2026 at 12 pm at San Francisco City Hall.
  • Protesters plan to speak out at the San Francisco Civil Service Commission at 1 pm on March 17, 2026 in Room 400 of City Hall.

The players

Mayor Daniel Lurie

The mayor of San Francisco who is accused of personally harassing and bullying homeless and low-income Black residents.

Tony Sheravaughn Phillips

A resident who was allegedly assaulted by the mayor's SFPD security detail during an altercation.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions over homelessness, policing, and the role of local government in San Francisco. It raises questions about the mayor's authority, adherence to civil service rules, and the treatment of vulnerable residents in the city.