International Hotel (San Francisco)

The International Hotel, often referred to as the I-Hotel, was a low-income residential hotel located in San Francisco's Manilatown neighborhood (also known as Little Manila). Constructed in 1907, it provided affordable housing primarily to Filipino and Chinese immigrant laborers, many of whom worked in the service and maritime industries.

For decades, the I-Hotel served as a vibrant community hub, offering a sense of belonging and cultural preservation for its residents who faced discrimination and limited opportunities elsewhere. It played a critical role in preserving the heritage of Manilatown, which had gradually diminished due to urban development pressures.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the I-Hotel became the focal point of a protracted struggle between its residents and the building's owner, who sought to evict them in order to redevelop the property for commercial purposes. This struggle galvanized community activists, students, and progressive organizations, leading to widespread protests and legal battles. The I-Hotel eviction became a symbol of the displacement of marginalized communities and the fight for affordable housing.

Despite years of resistance, the final eviction of the remaining residents occurred in August 1977. The event was met with widespread condemnation and marked a turning point in the fight against gentrification in San Francisco. The original building was later demolished.

In the early 2000s, a new International Hotel was constructed on the original site as a result of years of community activism. The new building provides affordable housing for seniors and serves as a community center, honoring the legacy of the original I-Hotel and its residents. It stands as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fighting for social justice.