Pink Triangle Memorial

A Place of Remembrance

Tucked away at the intersection of Castro, Market, and 17th Streets in San Francisco's vibrant Castro District sits the Pink Triangle Memorial - a small yet powerful space that packs immense meaning into less than 4,000 square feet. Perched directly above the Castro Street Station and across from Harvey Milk Plaza, this triangular park might be compact, but its significance runs deep.

Established in 2001, this memorial holds a special place in American history as the first permanent, free-standing monument dedicated to LGBTQ+ individuals who suffered persecution under Nazi Germany. It stands as a solemn reminder of those targeted in Fascist Europe between 1933-1945.

A Thoughtful Design

At the heart of the memorial, 15 sierra-white granite pylons form a triangular arrangement, each one inlaid with a pink triangle crafted from quartz. These pylons represent an estimated 15,000 LGBTQ+ people who were sent to concentration camps during the Holocaust - a sobering testament to lives unfairly cut short.

The memorial's center features a large pink triangle made of rose quartz stones, surrounded by pink rose bushes. More than just visually striking, these elements symbolize healing, love, and pride - a gentle counterbalance to the memorial's weighty historical context.

A Community Effort

Despite being wedged between busy streets, this small sanctuary manages to be surprisingly colorful and peaceful. The grounds burst with succulents, roses, and an array of flowers that bring life and vibrancy to the space.

What makes this memorial even more special is that it's entirely maintained through donations and volunteer work. It's a living example of community care and commitment to preserving an important piece of history.

Your Visit

If you stop by, you're welcome to take a single rose quartz stone as a keepsake - a small token to remember those who were persecuted and to carry forward a message of hope and peace. Though your visit might only take a few minutes, many find the experience surprisingly moving.

The Pink Triangle Memorial offers a meaningful moment of reflection before you continue exploring the lively Castro neighborhood. Despite its modest size, it functions as a powerful reminder of resilience and the ongoing journey toward equality. It's not just about commemorating the past, but also about educating visitors and inspiring continued vigilance against discrimination in all its forms.