Sep 5 2008
Yesterday, the San Francisco Department of Public Health "disinvited" STEP from any further participation in the Sunday Streets festival. Citing what the Health Department called STEP's "pro-tobacco" stance, a department official claimed that STEP's programs were in opposition to the official health policy of the city. STEP's board had previously notified the Health Department that it would not be participating in the next Sunday Streets anyway.
In a further action, the department verbally requested that STEP remove portions of this website that apparently have caused concern or offense within the department. Fortunately, STEP enjoys the same First Amendment rights to free speech as every other organization in America.
STEP plans no changes to the website and categorically rejects any request by DPH to do so. While the DPH is certainly free to invite or "disinvite" whomever they wish to a street fair, they possess no authority to control or direct the published opinions of the citizens of San Francisco.
For the record, STEP is "pro-personal choice" not "pro-tobacco".
STEP Takes It To The Sunday Streets
Aug 31 2008
STEP board members, ready to serve the San Francisco community, in making smart tobacco choices.
Trained STEP counselors making a difference, every day.
Famous Cinematographer to Work with STEP
Aug 24 2008
Well known director and cinematographer "Spike" Harrison has agreed to work with STEP to promote our mission of acceptance and concern. Harrison will direct, edit, and produce a short documentary on STEP's work with a special focus on the Sunday Streets fair.
STEP is pleased that Harrison has so graciously agreed to collaborate with STEP in this vital work.
Update on San Francisco Sunday Streets
Aug 19 2008
STEP will be located in the big island in the middle of the Embarcadero right in front of the Ferry Building during Sunday Streets (August 31 and September 14). As of this writing, both Crazy Marty and el Greco will be present to bring the mission of STEP to needy individuals.
Can you help? Volunteer with STEP. It's easy, it's fun.
STEP joins in San Francisco Sunday Streets
Aug 11 2008
STEP is pleased to announce that we've been selected by the San Francisco Department of Health to participate in the Sunday Streets Resource Fair. STEP's application was well received by the DPH:
"We received your application for the Sunday Streets Resource Fair. Thanks for your interest and participation. We think your organization will fit nicely with our community corner."
San Francisco Department of Health
Community Health Promotion and Prevention
August 4, 2008
Sunday Streets will occur on both August 31 and September 14, from 9 AM until 1 PM. The Resource Fair (STEP's location) will be held between Justin Herman Plaza and the Ferry Building. The Embarcadero will be closed to vehicular traffic at those times.
We need help! You can volunteer! Help another person make smart tobacco choices!
To volunteer, email us here. Let us know which dates and times you can help!
