In October 1981, Mayor Dianne Feinstein made a grand entrance aboard the USS Constellation, leading a parade of warships under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. This was her brainchild, ‘Fleet Week,’ an initiative to reconnect San Francisco with the sea service in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. At a time when the military was not well-regarded, especially in her city, Mayor Feinstein took a risk.
She was both excited and anxious about how the sailors would be received in San Francisco. To show her commitment, she even shared her personal home phone number, urging anyone in trouble to call her directly. Rumor has it that she received a few calls, but she kept them to herself. This was just the beginning of her dedication to ‘Fleet Week,’ which she continued for six more years during her tenure as the city’s first female mayor.
Today, ‘Fleet Week’ is once again in full swing in San Francisco. The warships on The Embarcadero are attracting crowds of spectators, and the Blue Angels will soon grace the skies above the bay.
This year’s event holds a special significance as it pays tribute to Dianne Feinstein, the honorary chair of ‘Fleet Week.’ Sadly, Senator Feinstein passed away just three days before the 42nd edition of her beloved initiative. She will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to her city by the bay.
The late Ms. Feinstein, who was 90 years old, was memorialized on the front steps of San Francisco City Hall. The service was closed to the public for security reasons but was live-streamed for all to witness. President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other prominent figures paid their respects to the senator.
President Biden spoke fondly of his 15 years serving alongside Ms. Feinstein in the Senate. He praised her toughness, preparedness, and compassion, emphasizing her dedication to improving the lives of everyday people. He highlighted her leadership as Senate Judiciary Committee chair and her instrumental role in various important causes.
Vice President Harris described Senator Feinstein as an icon of California and a passionate leader. She commended her for welcoming debate and discussion, always prioritizing substance over ideology. Vice President Harris also mentioned Ms. Feinstein’s artistic talents, which many admired.
Senator Chuck Schumer shared his personal connection with Ms. Feinstein, calling her a close friend. He recalled their collaboration on the ‘assault weapons’ ban and praised her tireless efforts to protect the American people.
Throughout the ceremony, it became clear that Senator Feinstein was not only respected by her colleagues but also deeply loved. She was remembered as a trailblazer who made history and left a lasting legacy.
Dianne Feinstein, her arms outstretched in celebration, in her office after she was elected mayor of San Francisco, at San Francisco City Hall in San Francisco, California, circa 1978. (Nick Allen/Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
‘Not Ideology, Substance.’
President Biden highlighted Senator Feinstein’s dedication to serving the people and her ability to turn passion into purpose. He praised her leadership in banning ‘assault weapons’ and her commitment to civil liberties and national security. He emphasized that her impact will be felt for generations to come.
Vice President Harris remembered Senator Feinstein as a serious and gracious person who valued well-informed and studied debate. She admired her focus on real people and tangible results, rather than empty rhetoric.
Senator Schumer shared his pride in working with Ms. Feinstein on the ‘assault weapons’ ban, considering it one of the highlights of his political career. He described her as an amazing and multifaceted woman, highlighting her resilience and determination.
Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chair Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) talks with Chair Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) on Capitol Hill in Washington in February 2016. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
‘An American Amen’
Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised Senator Feinstein for her unwavering commitment to her duties. She highlighted how Dianne shaped the lives of girls and women, inspiring them to pursue leadership roles. Mayor London Breed, who was once a young French Horn player, shared her personal connection with Ms. Feinstein and the impact she had on her life.
The city of San Francisco mourns the loss of its beloved mayor. Thousands of people lined the streets to pay their respects to Senator Feinstein, who will always be remembered as Mayor Dianne Feinstein.
The ceremony was interrupted several times by fly-bys from the Blue Angels, a fitting tribute to a woman who loved her city and its traditions. As the rabbi said, “That’s an American amen.”
How did Senator Feinstein’s dedication to substance manifest in her work on the Senate Judiciary Committee, particularly in overseeing high-stakes confirmation hearings for Supreme Court justices
Biden’s statement encapsulated Senator Feinstein’s approach to politics. Throughout her career, she consistently prioritized substance and practical solutions over ideological divides. This mindset allowed her to navigate complex issues and make significant contributions to the betterment of her constituents and the nation as a whole.
One area where Senator Feinstein demonstrated her dedication to substance was her work on the Senate Judiciary Committee. As committee chair, she oversaw high-stakes confirmation hearings, including those for Supreme Court justices. During these hearings, she displayed a keen understanding of the law and a commitment to fairness and due process. Her leadership ensured that these crucial appointments were thoroughly vetted and evaluated based on qualifications and judicial temperament.
Senator Feinstein’s impact extended far beyond judicial proceedings. Throughout her tenure, she championed numerous causes that directly influenced the lives of everyday people. For instance, she was a strong advocate for common-sense gun control measures, most notably co-authoring the 1994 ‘assault weapons’ ban. Her efforts to curb gun violence showcased her unwavering commitment to protecting the American people.
Furthermore, Senator Feinstein left an indelible mark on US foreign policy, particularly in relation to US-China relations. She recognized the significance of the bilateral relationship and worked tirelessly to promote dialogue and engagement between the two nations. Her role in shaping US-China policy was instrumental in maintaining stability and cooperation in a complex geopolitical landscape.
Senator Feinstein’s peers also recognized her as a compassionate leader who cared deeply about the well-being of others. Her toughness and preparedness were matched by her genuine concern for the issues that affected the everyday lives of her constituents. She was known for being accessible and responsive to the needs of those she represented, always striving to make a positive difference in their lives.
Beyond her political accomplishments, Senator Feinstein was admired for her artistic talents. She possessed a creative spirit and an appreciation for the arts, which added another dimension to her public persona and endeared her to many.
The passing of Senator Feinstein marks the end of an era. Her trailblazing career paved the way for other women to enter the political arena and make their mark. She will be remembered for her dedication, integrity, and commitment to public service.
As San Francisco celebrates ‘Fleet Week’ and pays tribute to Senator Feinstein, let us not only remember her legacy but also strive to embody the same spirit of substance over ideology in our own lives and in the political discourse of our nation.
Rest in peace, Dianne Feinstein, and thank you for your service.
Now loading...