Arlo Smith, a former San Francisco district attorney who fought for justice and equality, has passed away at the age of 97. A champion of civil rights, Smith was known for his dedication to protecting women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, particularly during his 16-year tenure as district attorney.
Born in Minnesota in 1927, Smith moved to California after serving in World War II. He credits the GI Bill with allowing him to attend college and graduate from UC Berkeley School of Law. Before becoming a lawyer, he worked for Pat Brown’s office, where he rose through the ranks to become chief of the criminal division.
As district attorney, Smith prioritized domestic violence, hate crimes, and women’s rights. He created one of the first domestic violence units in the country and hired record numbers of LGBTQ+ and minority officials during his time in office. His commitment to justice earned him recognition from organizations such as the Bay Area Rapid Transit System board and the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee.
Gay Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who worked under Smith, praised his mentorship and dedication to public safety. “Arlo was among my first bosses, and he was an influential mentor to me,” Dorsey said. “He trusted me to manage his successful reelection bid and gave me the opportunity to work on the District Attorney’s Hate Crimes Task Force.”
Smith’s legacy continues through his family, who remember him as a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His son, Arlo Hale Smith, told the Bay Area Reporter that his dad “was alert and in pretty good shape until after his second wife passed away” before passing away himself just a day before his birthday.
Source: https://www.ebar.com/story/159048