San Francisco has long been a leader in protecting diverse communities, but residents in non-monogamous relationships and non-nuclear family structures still face discrimination.

It's time to close that gap.

Protecting diverse family and relationship structures in San Francisco

What We're Working Toward

The San Franciscans for Family and Relationship Equity Coalition is working to pass an ordinance that would add "family or relationship structure" as a protected category in the city's existing non-discrimination laws.

This protection would cover diverse families and relationships including:

  • Consensually non-monogamous relationships (polyamory, open relationships, swinger lifestyle etc.)

  • Multi-partner and multi-parent families

  • Multi-generational households

  • Stepfamilies and blended families

  • Chosen families

  • Single-parent households

  • Asexual and aromantic relationships

Where we stand

Coalition members have met with San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and support is strong. We're working toward introducing legislation in 2025 that would ensure all San Francisco residents have equal access to housing, services, and opportunities regardless of how they structure their families or relationships. At present, we are seeking a sponsor to introduce the legislation.

Why this matters

Despite San Francisco's progressive values, people in non-monogamous relationships and non-nuclear family structures face real discrimination in housing, employment, healthcare, and other essential services. Our 2024 community survey of 4,500 people found that 58% experienced stigma or discrimination based on their relationship or family structure.

The lack of legal protection forces many to hide their relationships and family arrangements, creating stress and limiting access to support systems when they're needed most.

Get involved:

Stay updated: Sign up for updates about OPEN’s work and opportunities to stay engaged locally.

Share your story: Personal experiences help illustrate why these protections matter. If you’ve experienced stigma or discrimination on the basis of your non-monogamous identity in San Francisco, we’d like to hear about it! Write us at info@open-love.org.