Learn about the remarkable Rev. Cecil Williams in the GLIDE Historical Records at the San Francisco History Center

San Francisco, May 6 — While the City of San Francisco mourns the passing of Rev. Cecil Williams, GLIDE Co-Founder and Minister of Liberation, we can take great comfort in the fact that his legacy endures at San Francisco Public Library. Late last year, the Library acquired the GLIDE Historical Records. These can be found in the San Francisco History Center, located on the 6th Floor of the Main Library, and is accessible to the public.

“Cecil was unwavering in his commitment to help the most marginalized in our community and in the world,” said Dr. Gina Fromer, President and CEO of GLIDE.  “We will keep Cecil’s spirit within in us always — as it guides our work going forward.”

The GLIDE Historical Records include more than 40 cartons of GLIDE's historical documents which showcase the organization’s groundbreaking work serving the most vulnerable members of the Tenderloin and LGBTQIA+ communities since Rev. Cecil Willians joined GLIDE in 1963. Significantly, the collection includes speeches, sermons, correspondence and published writings of leaders Rev. Williams and his beloved wife and Co-Founder Janice Mirikitani. The GLIDE archives offer an invaluable resource for understanding the impact of a transformative and inclusive institution that is recognized worldwide.

“We are so grateful to have the GLIDE archives in our collection as it is key to the preservation of San Francisco history,” says Christina Moretta, Photo Curator and acting San Francisco History Center Manager at San Francisco Public Library. “Cecil and Janice embodied the spirit of San Francisco, and this collection provides future generations the opportunity to learn about their remarkable lives and the work they did for the City through GLIDE.” 

The San Francisco History Center is the official archive for the City and County of San Francisco and holds collections covering all aspects of San Francisco history. All archives are available to the public during open hours at the History Center in the Main Library. Patrons are welcome to visit to learn more about the city's rich and diverse history. Learn more about the SF History Center: on.sfpl.org/sf-history.

About GLIDE:

For more than six decades spanning political, economic and cultural changes, GLIDE has served as a social justice movement, social service provider and spiritual community dedicated to strengthening communities and transforming lives. GLIDE is recognized worldwide for equity, dedicated to fighting systemic injustices, creating pathways out of poverty and crisis, and transforming lives. Through our integrated comprehensive services, advocacy initiatives, and inclusive community, we empower individuals, families, and children to achieve stability and thrive. GLIDE is on the forefront of addressing some of society's most pressing issues, including poverty, housing and homelessness, and racial and social justice.

About San Francisco Public Library: 

San Francisco Public Library connects our diverse communities to learning, opportunities and each other. The library system is made up of 27 neighborhood branches, the San Francisco Main Library and four bookmobiles.