The Hidden Fairness Fight Behind “Liberal” San Francisco’s Biggest Debates

San Francisco is full of thoughtful people committed to solving hard public problems. Yet on issues like homelessness, safe streets, education, bringing back business, and DEI, good-faith conversations often break down into mistrust and confusion. One reason is that people rely on different definitions of fairness while assuming everyone means the same thing. Some emphasize equal treatment; others focus on repair, access, order, dignity, or legitimacy.

In this live, interactive event, psychologist Billy Vaughn will introduce a practical framework for understanding the competing fairness logics shaping civic life today. He will clarify the difference between equality- and equity-based fairness, explain why public debates become so combustible when those meanings are blurred, and offer tools for more credible, grounded dialogue.

The evening will begin with a 60-minute guided presentation with intermittent short voluntary audience participation exercises, followed by a moderated conversation and Q&A. It is designed for people who care about fairness, want more productive civic dialogue in San Francisco, and are looking for a more practical way to navigate difficult conversations across differences.

_________________________

Billy Vaughn, PhD, is a cognitive cultural psychologist (UC San Diego) and founder of the accredited continuing education organization, Diversity Training University International. His company recently completed a six-year contract to train its 6500 SFMTA employees. He is the author of Reimagining Fairness (2025), which received an A-rated independent review from BookLife, was featured in Forbes as one of the 2026 books in its category, and was posted as a resource on the National Law Review. His work helps leaders and institutions think more clearly about fairness, inclusion, legitimacy, and public trust in moments of conflict and change.

_________________________

Perks for Paid Tickets

• Show your ticket at the Cafe bar to receive
• 18% off beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
• Offer valid only for paid ticket holders.

Manny’s never turns away anyone for lack of funds. If you need a free ticket, just email "grapefruit" along with the event title to [email protected]

Want to support community members? By purchasing a "Pay It Forward" ticket you will allow us to provide free tickets to those who may not be able to afford entry otherwise and ensure we can create a diverse socio-economic audience that represents San Francisco.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Manny's