The executive director of a San Francisco nonprofit offering free legal services to low-income residents has pledged a hunger strike in protest of proposed budget cuts to the city’s legal aid programs. The move comes as Mayor Daniel Lurie’s administration faces growing criticism over its spending decisions.

Hunger Strike Announced

Adrian Tirtanadi, executive director of Open Door Legal, announced he will begin his hunger strike on Wednesday. He pledged not to eat until the proposed funding cuts are reversed, calling the decision devastating for vulnerable communities.

Impact on Families

Tirtanadi warned the cuts would cripple legal services for the city’s most at-risk residents. “These cuts will force legal aid organizations to turn away scores of families, hundreds of whom will be pushed into homelessness and impoverished because of an inability to access legal assistance,” he said.

Mayor’s Office Silent

As of Monday, Mayor Lurie’s office did not respond to requests for comment regarding the legal aid funding controversy. The mayor had previously committed to making data-driven budget decisions, a claim now under scrutiny.

Legal Aid’s Importance

Emphasizing the critical role legal aid plays in safeguarding the city’s most vulnerable, Tirtanadi said, “Without legal support, people lose their homes, abuse victims have nowhere to turn, and immigrants are separated from their children and families.”

Data Undermines Cuts

Calling the defunding decision baffling, Tirtanadi added, “Given Mayor Lurie’s promise to make data-driven budget decisions rather than ideological ones, the choice to defund civil legal aid is baffling. The data is clear: legal aid is often the cheapest and most effective way to prevent homelessness.”

Community Protests Grow

Labor and community leaders rallied at City Hall last week, staging a large protest against the proposed cuts. The demonstration highlighted growing public opposition to the city’s budget priorities and increasing pressure on officials to reverse course.

Justice is Essential

Tirtanadi concluded his statement by reminding city leaders of their obligation to the vulnerable. “Legal aid is not a luxury. Ensuring justice for the poor is the most basic mandate of the government and upstream of so many of our social problems,” he said.