Every weekend in February, we will highlight a very special friend of Old Skool Cafe as we celebrate the Black heroes in our community. Join us as we learn, celebrate, and enjoy each living legend's favorite meal!

San Francisco Mayor London Breed with Old Skool Cafe Founder Teresa Goines and Old Skool alumni.

Old Skool Cafe (OSC): Mayor Breed, thank you so much for letting us celebrate you during Black History Month! Who is one Black historical figure who has inspired you?

Mayor London Breed: Congressman John Lewis. He put his whole life into fighting the injustices that have long plagued this country, and he never stopped demonstrating unparalleled strength, perseverance, and dignity. So many of us stand on his shoulders.

OSC: What is one piece of wisdom or advice that you would like to impart to this generation of young people?

Mayor Breed: San Francisco has always been and will continue to be a magnet, a destination, a place that draws people. We are the City of Pride. It’s up to each of us to harness that pride and be motivated by it to take action in our community and to tell our stories.

OSC: Why do you support the mission at Old Skool Cafe?

Mayor Breed: Old Skool Cafe is giving our youth a chance to explore, create, and expand their potential, and as our city bounces back from COVID, we must continue to connect young people with these opportunities so they can become leaders in whatever field they choose to pursue.

OSC: Anything else you’d like to share?

Mayor Breed: Old Skool Cafe’s work has been so important as they ensure there is a supportive environment to help youth maintain employment and be successful in all aspects of their lives. I want to thank all of their staff members and those who have been supporting their important mission.

Old Skool Cafe (OSC): Judge Thompson, thank you so much for letting us celebrate you during Black History Month! Will you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Judge Thompson: In a few short words: I grew up in Oakland and Vallejo, California. I also spent some time in the south in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. I was always intrigued by the power of photography and the storytelling of photographers Gordon Parks and Dorothea Lange. The images instilled in me a desire to become a public servant and work for people who did not have a voice.

I always knew that I wanted to be a lawyer. I loved meeting people in the community, trying cases, and serving as their voice in the courtroom. Becoming a judge was serendipity and grace. Hard work and kindness do pay off. As a result, mentors entered my life at different stages and guided me towards all of my transitions from working in the Public Defender’s Office, to starting my own practice, and thereafter becoming a Juvenile Court Commissioner. This led to me becoming the first African American woman to be “elected” to the bench in Alameda County and most recently, becoming a member of the Northern District of California as a District Court Judge.

OSC: Who is one Black historical figure who has inspired you?

Judge Thompson: Congressman John Lewis and his lifelong legacy to secure our right to vote. In the words of John Lewis, “The right to vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool or instrument in a democratic society. We must use it.”

OSC: What is one piece of wisdom or advice that you would like to impart to this generation of young

people?

Judge Thompson: Pack patience wherever you go and:

1) Always do what is ethically correct;

2) Always center your efforts with humility, empathy, and public service;

3) Always think and act inclusively.

4) Never denigrate, berate, or underestimateanyone.

And 5) remember that what you do today is the history of tomorrow – so be proud of what you do!

OSC: Why do you support the mission at Old Skool Cafe?

Judge Thompson: As a former foster youth, I know the importance of obtaining hard skills through employment and life skills by meeting people from various walks of life. Old Skool Cafe has provided a protected space for youth who are exceptionally talented, tenacious, and truly resilient. I look forward to future opportunities to work with the youth of OSC. They are now family.

OSC: You selected Short Ribs for your dinner special. Tell us more about that!

Judge Thompson: It reminds me of home and the southern recipes of my grandmother, Iola Martin. In short, it reminds me of the love and warmth of my grandmother’s “comfort food”.

Impact Report 2022

Living Legend Mayor London Breed // Celebrate Black History Month with us!

Living Legend Judge Trina Thompson // Celebrate Black History Month with us!

Old Skool Cafe Blog