Life-without-parole sentences are cruel
Regarding “California Supreme Court upholds life-without-parole sentences for adults 25 and under” (California, SFChronicle.com, March 4): Life without parole continues to be an inhumane sentence, particularly imposed on emerging adults who are 18-25.
I applaud the dissenting opinions by Justices Kelli Evans and Goodwin Liu, which pointed out the extreme racial disparities involved in life without parole. Over 60% of people sentenced to life without parole in California were 25 or under at the time of their offense, and over 68% of those serving life without parole are Black and brown people.
I am both, Black and brown, and was sentenced to life without parole in 1996; it took a miracle and God’s grace for me to be allowed to make amends with the San Francisco community where I was born and raised.
I now work hard at giving back, look after my grandchildren, vote and pay taxes.
Please don’t overlook the potential of the over 5,000 California people who are still sentenced to die in California prisons.
Joseph Bell Jr., member, National LWOP Leadership Council,
Human Rights Watch, Hayward
Union Square will rise
There is no reason to dismiss the viability or purpose of Union Square in San Francisco. It is an iconic area that draws visitors from around the world and holds a special place in the heart of San Franciscans.
While the news of Macy’s leaving Union Square is disappointing, it was also anticipated. The potential for closure has been talked about for more than 20 years.
Internet shopping has had a significant impact on department store sales. The pandemic added fuel to the fire.
Nevertheless, the closure is another example of the changes in San Francisco’s economic core.
The good news is that thanks to the focus of groups such as the Union Square Alliance and Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s Downtown Economic Revitalization legislation, there is a viable path for transitioning buildings like Macy’s into new uses that will contribute to a vibrant neighborhood.
With strategic thinking focused on issues such as safe and clean streets, we will ensure the success of one of the city’s most storied landmarks. Wade Rose, president, Advance SF
Pelosi’s political move
Regarding “Nancy Pelosi’s backing was a ‘Willy Wonka ticket’ for Adam Schiff in California Senate race” (Joe Garofoli, SFChronicle.com, March 6): What isn’t mentioned in the examination of why Nancy Pelosi backed Rep. Adam Schiff for Senate is that he is more conservative than Reps. Katie Porter or Barbara Lee.
Why would Pelosi endorse Schiff so early, over two competent women, and in a Democrat-Democrat race?
I think the former speaker did not want a progressive candidate to take the Senate seat. Pelosi gives lip service to progressives but regularly freezes them out of decisions. Pelosi wants to protect the economic status quo for herself and her rich donors. Expect Schiff to do the same.
Robert Leeds, Oakland
Get rid of anthem at games
Regarding “Giants’ Bob Melvin encourages but doesn’t require standing for anthem, he says” (Giants, SFChronicle .com, March 5): Over the years I’ve noticed that during the national anthem at sporting events that the military is front and center with flyovers, huge American flags and soldiers, especially at professional football games.
And let’s not forget Donald Trump saying that former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick should be “fired” when he took a knee during the anthem.
These are sports games, not military games.
I suggest no anthem at all. Too bad there isn’t a great song called “Get Down to Business” someone could sing before the game. Judith Keenan, San Francisco
Standing honors military
Regarding “Giants’ Bob Melvin encourages but doesn’t require standing for anthem, he says” (Giants, SFChronicle .com, March 5): The reason why the San Francisco Giants should stand for the national anthem is not to show the opposing team that they’re “ready to play.”
They should stand for the national anthem to honor the men and women who have fought and died for our country.
They should also stand to honor the first responders who have died or been injured in the line of duty. Pete Campbell, San Jose