Garrett Leahy

A Chinese journalist who used to work with the New York Times claims he was attacked by a member of Xi Jinping&#8217;s security detail during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference in San Francisco last month.

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A Chinese journalist who used to work with the New York Times claims he was attacked by a member of Xi Jinping's security detail during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference in San Francisco last month.

A Chinese journalist who used to work with the New York Times claims he was attacked by a member of Xi Jinping&#8217;s security detail during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference in San Francisco last month.

News of the alleged assault by a Chinese government employee comes as a congressional commission demands the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the role of Beijing after protesters claimed they were beaten and harassed by Chinese government agents in November during&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/14/china-xi-jinping-san-francisco-protests/">Xi&#8217;s visit to San Francisco</a>.

China’s Xi Jinping arrives in San Francisco to fanfare, protests

News of the alleged assault by a Chinese government employee comes as a congressional commission demands the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the role of Beijing after protesters claimed they were beaten and harassed by Chinese government agents in November during&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/14/china-xi-jinping-san-francisco-protests/">Xi's visit to San Francisco</a>.

News of the alleged assault by a Chinese government employee comes as a congressional commission demands the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the role of Beijing after protesters claimed they were beaten and harassed by Chinese government agents in November during&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/14/china-xi-jinping-san-francisco-protests/">Xi&#8217;s visit to San Francisco</a>.

Specifically, the Congressional-Executive Commission on China wants to know if the alleged violence against the anti-Beijing protesters was part of an operation by the Chinese Communist Party and whether the civil rights of the protesters were violated.

Specifically, the Congressional-Executive Commission on China wants to know if the alleged violence against the anti-Beijing protesters was part of an operation by the Chinese Communist Party and whether the civil rights of the protesters were violated.

A clash between Tibetan protesters and San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) officers along Market Street as the demonstrators approached a Pro-Chinese rally at 3rd St. on Wed., November 15, 2023. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit will take place at San Francisco’s Moscone Center from Monday, November 13 through Friday, November 17 and city government has implemented major steps to create safety and security for the thousands of delegates and visitors coming to the Bay Area. The measures will include heightened local, state and federal police presence, vehicle road closures and detours along with restricted pedestrian access inside the security zone. Additionally, a number of protests are expected throughout the week.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined04_20231130novemberphotosofthemonth.jpg?w=2200" alt="A woman screams while in the middle of dozens of people during a protest with Tibetan flags in the background." class="wp-image-226503"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A clash between Tibetan protesters and San Francisco Police Department officers ensued as the demonstrators approached a pro-China rally on Third Street near Market Street on Nov. 15.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined04_20231130novemberphotosofthemonth.jpg?w=2200" alt="A woman screams while in the middle of dozens of people during a protest with Tibetan flags in the background." class="wp-image-226503"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A clash between Tibetan protesters and San Francisco Police Department officers ensued as the demonstrators approached a pro-China rally on Third Street near Market Street on Nov. 15.</figcaption></figure>

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/san-francisco-cleaned-up-for-apec-see-before-and-after-photos/">San Francisco Cleaned Up for APEC: See Before and After Photos</a>

San Francisco cleaned up for APEC: See before and after photos

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/san-francisco-cleaned-up-for-apec-see-before-and-after-photos/">San Francisco Cleaned Up for APEC: See Before and After Photos</a>

Yan Zhao alleges he was attacked on Nov. 13 around noon at Mission and Third streets, not far from Moscone Center from where APEC was held. Xi was staying at the St. Regis hotel on that corner, and his presence attracted multiple protests.

Yan Zhao alleges he was attacked on Nov. 13 around noon at Mission and Third streets, not far from Moscone Center from where APEC was held. Xi was staying at the St. Regis hotel on that corner, and his presence attracted multiple protests.

Zhao, who is the CEO of the <a href="https://apcjnews.com/2023/12/13/赵岩在美国众议院请求史密斯议员督促国务院对向/">Association to Protect Journalists of China</a> and <a href="https://www.cecc.gov/publications/commission-analysis/media-summary-chinas-detention-of-new-york-times-researcher-zhao" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formerly worked with the New York Times</a>, alleges the man who attacked him is the head of security of the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Zhao, who is the CEO of the <a href="https://apcjnews.com/2023/12/13/赵岩在美国众议院请求史密斯议员督促国务院对向/">Association to Protect Journalists of China</a> and <a href="https://www.cecc.gov/publications/commission-analysis/media-summary-chinas-detention-of-new-york-times-researcher-zhao" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formerly worked with the New York Times</a>, alleges the man who attacked him is the head of security of the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C.

A police report filed by Zhao and reviewed by The Standard identifies the alleged assailant as Zhongpeng Fan, 39.

A police report filed by Zhao and reviewed by The Standard identifies the alleged assailant as Zhongpeng Fan, 39.

Zhao said he was elbowed in his right side, unprovoked, and when Zhao asked why the man hit him, the man said Zhao had hit him first.  &#8220;I didn&#8217;t even see them coming. I was on my phone,&#8221; Zhao said, speaking to The Standard through an interpreter.

Zhao said he was elbowed in his right side, unprovoked, and when Zhao asked why the man hit him, the man said Zhao had hit him first. "I didn't even see them coming. I was on my phone," Zhao said, speaking to The Standard through an interpreter.

Zhao said he was elbowed in his right side, unprovoked, and when Zhao asked why the man hit him, the man said Zhao had hit him first. &#8220;I didn&#8217;t even see them coming. I was on my phone,&#8221; Zhao said, speaking to The Standard through an interpreter.

Zhao said after the exchange, the man called him a &#8220;traitor&#8221; and said he would run him over with his car, to which Zhao claims he responded, &#8220;You stole China. You are the robber of China.&#8221;

Zhao said after the exchange, the man called him a "traitor" and said he would run him over with his car, to which Zhao claims he responded, "You stole China. You are the robber of China."

Zhao said after the exchange, the man called him a &#8220;traitor&#8221; and said he would run him over with his car, to which Zhao claims he responded, &#8220;You stole China. You are the robber of China.&#8221;

This escalated the fight, Zhao said, and he was hit by &#8220;seven or eight&#8221; people, who Zhao claimed were all security staff of China&#8217;s Embassy in Washington.

This escalated the fight, Zhao said, and he was hit by "seven or eight" people, who Zhao claimed were all security staff of China's Embassy in Washington.

This escalated the fight, Zhao said, and he was hit by &#8220;seven or eight&#8221; people, who Zhao claimed were all security staff of China&#8217;s Embassy in Washington.

Zhao said police intervened and ended the fight but did not arrest the man who hit and threatened him. &#8220;They should have arrested him on the spot,&#8221; Zhao said. &#8220;He threatened to hit me with his car.&#8221;

Zhao said police intervened and ended the fight but did not arrest the man who hit and threatened him. "They should have arrested him on the spot," Zhao said. "He threatened to hit me with his car."

Zhao said police intervened and ended the fight but did not arrest the man who hit and threatened him. &#8220;They should have arrested him on the spot,&#8221; Zhao said. &#8220;He threatened to hit me with his car.&#8221;

Zhao claims a member of Xi Jinping's security detail attacked him at Mission and Third streets during APEC.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/screenshot-2023-12-18-at-2-43-55-pm.png?w=2500" alt="Cars wait at stop lights at a four-way intersection." class="wp-image-233569"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yan Zhao claims a member of Xi Jinping&#8217;s security detail attacked him at Mission and Third streets during APEC.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/screenshot-2023-12-18-at-2-43-55-pm.png?w=2500" alt="Cars wait at stop lights at a four-way intersection." class="wp-image-233569"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yan Zhao claims a member of Xi Jinping's security detail attacked him at Mission and Third streets during APEC.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/screenshot-2023-12-18-at-2-43-55-pm.png?w=2500" alt="Cars wait at stop lights at a four-way intersection." class="wp-image-233569"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yan Zhao claims a member of Xi Jinping&#8217;s security detail attacked him at Mission and Third streets during APEC.</figcaption></figure>

The police report says the attack occurred around 12:10 p.m. on Nov. 13 and says Fan allegedly hit Zhao in the right side from behind with his shoulder. Zhao did not know the name of his assailant but recognized him from previous encounters in Washington, according to the police report.

The police report says the attack occurred around 12:10 p.m. on Nov. 13 and says Fan allegedly hit Zhao in the right side from behind with his shoulder. Zhao did not know the name of his assailant but recognized him from previous encounters in Washington, according to the police report.

The police report says Fan allegedly had &#8220;caused issues&#8221; in the past with Zhao in Washington and that police had been involved in those incidents.

The police report says Fan allegedly had "caused issues" in the past with Zhao in Washington and that police had been involved in those incidents.

The police report says Fan allegedly had &#8220;caused issues&#8221; in the past with Zhao in Washington and that police had been involved in those incidents.

Fan told a responding officer he had been in verbal arguments with Zhao &#8220;over the past few days&#8221; and claimed he had acted in self-defense but did not elaborate further, according to the police report. Fan went on to claim he was an employee of the Chinese Embassy and has &#8220;diplomatic immunity,&#8221; the report added.

Fan told a responding officer he had been in verbal arguments with Zhao "over the past few days" and claimed he had acted in self-defense but did not elaborate further, according to the police report. Fan went on to claim he was an employee of the Chinese Embassy and has "diplomatic immunity," the report added.

Fan told a responding officer he had been in verbal arguments with Zhao &#8220;over the past few days&#8221; and claimed he had acted in self-defense but did not elaborate further, according to the police report. Fan went on to claim he was an employee of the Chinese Embassy and has &#8220;diplomatic immunity,&#8221; the report added.

The Chinese Embassy declined to comment on the alleged incident or to confirm if Fan worked there, but said in an emailed statement that provocations and attacks against &#8220;Chinese welcoming communities&#8221; in San Francisco injured 60 people. The Embassy condemned the attacks and asked the U.S. government to investigate.

The Chinese Embassy declined to comment on the alleged incident or to confirm if Fan worked there, but said in an emailed statement that provocations and attacks against "Chinese welcoming communities" in San Francisco injured 60 people. The Embassy condemned the attacks and asked the U.S. government to investigate.

The Chinese Embassy declined to comment on the alleged incident or to confirm if Fan worked there, but said in an emailed statement that provocations and attacks against &#8220;Chinese welcoming communities&#8221; in San Francisco injured 60 people. The Embassy condemned the attacks and asked the U.S. government to investigate.

Activist Rev. Patrick Mahoney holds two white balloons as he protests against the Chinese government over the alleged Chinese surveillance balloon that was shot down over the US last week, during a demonstration outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC, February 15, 2023. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP) (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/gettyimages-1247165118.jpg" alt="A man holds two balloons outside a government office building." class="wp-image-233570"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Rev. Patrick Mahoney holds two white balloons as he protests the Chinese government outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 15. </figcaption></figure>

An officer who witnessed the interaction between Fan and Zhao said in the report that he saw Fan &#8220;speaking down&#8221; to Zhao before pushing him once. The report did not mention anyone other than Fan or Zhao as involved in the incident.

An officer who witnessed the interaction between Fan and Zhao said in the report that he saw Fan "speaking down" to Zhao before pushing him once. The report did not mention anyone other than Fan or Zhao as involved in the incident.

An officer who witnessed the interaction between Fan and Zhao said in the report that he saw Fan &#8220;speaking down&#8221; to Zhao before pushing him once. The report did not mention anyone other than Fan or Zhao as involved in the incident.

Neither Zhao nor Fan were detained and both left the scene, according to the report. Fan was not cited due to conflicting statements and lack of evidence.

Neither Zhao nor Fan were detained and both left the scene, according to the report. Fan was not cited due to conflicting statements and lack of evidence.

Zhao was one of many demonstrators who flooded into San Francisco during APEC to protest political issues in China, including the treatment of Uyghurs, a Muslim minority in China, and longstanding political tensions over Taiwan.

Zhao was one of many demonstrators who flooded into San Francisco during APEC to protest political issues in China, including the treatment of Uyghurs, a Muslim minority in China, and longstanding political tensions over Taiwan.

Protesters said their attackers’ attire, coordination and strong reaction to anti-Communist Party rhetoric indicated official Chinese involvement. They provided no definitive evidence, but U.S. officials have previously accused Chinese operatives of targeting people in the United States.

Protesters said their attackers’ attire, coordination and strong reaction to anti-Communist Party rhetoric indicated official Chinese involvement. They provided no definitive evidence, but U.S. officials have previously accused Chinese operatives of targeting people in the United States.

The Chinese Embassy denied any involvement and instead accused the protesters of violence. The embassy said people had voluntarily traveled to San Francisco to welcome the Chinese president and show their support for the stabilization of U.S.-China relations as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/apec-summit-live-upda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xi and President Joe Biden met</a>&nbsp;on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, but they were met with violence by “rioters.”

The Chinese Embassy denied any involvement and instead accused the protesters of violence. The embassy said people had voluntarily traveled to San Francisco to welcome the Chinese president and show their support for the stabilization of U.S.-China relations as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/apec-summit-live-upda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xi and President Joe Biden met</a>&nbsp;on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, but they were met with violence by “rioters.”

Journalist claims Chinese government attacked him during APEC; Congress demands probe

Han Li

Starting this weekend, San Francisco will be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/07/san-francisco-apec-security-maps-transit-traffic/">all about APEC</a> for a week.&nbsp;

APEC San Francisco: Everything to know about security, traffic and transit in 10 maps

Starting this weekend, San Francisco will be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/07/san-francisco-apec-security-maps-transit-traffic/">all about APEC</a> for a week.&nbsp;

The international gathering, formally known as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, is expected to bring 30,000 travelers into the city and grab all the media attention.

The international gathering, formally known as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, is expected to bring 30,000 travelers into the city and grab all the media attention.

Throughout the week, international leaders and VIPs are expected to party at exclusive events at the Legion of Honor, Exploratorium, the Palace Hotel, Asian Art Museum and City Hall, and you’re probably out of luck on those. The 20 foreign governments and consulates, corporations and nonprofit organizations will also host parties for their selected invitees.

Throughout the week, international leaders and VIPs are expected to party at exclusive events at the Legion of Honor, Exploratorium, the Palace Hotel, Asian Art Museum and City Hall, and you’re probably out of luck on those. The 20 foreign governments and consulates, corporations and nonprofit organizations will also host parties for their selected invitees.

Guests attend the after party for HBO's "Game of Thrones" Season 5 at San Francisco City Hall on March 23, 2015 in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined2_20231027apechottickets.jpg?w=2500" alt="Dozens of people watch a dancer perform in the center of San Francisco's San Francisco City Hall with the interior space lowly lit in an auburn color. The event for an after party for HBO's &quot;Game of Thrones&quot; Season 5." class="wp-image-219000"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests attend the after party for HBO&#8217;s &#8220;Game of Thrones&#8221; Season 5 at San Francisco City Hall on March 23, 2015.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined2_20231027apechottickets.jpg?w=2500" alt="Dozens of people watch a dancer perform in the center of San Francisco's San Francisco City Hall with the interior space lowly lit in an auburn color. The event for an after party for HBO's &quot;Game of Thrones&quot; Season 5." class="wp-image-219000"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests attend the after party for HBO's "Game of Thrones" Season 5 at San Francisco City Hall on March 23, 2015.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined2_20231027apechottickets.jpg?w=2500" alt="Dozens of people watch a dancer perform in the center of San Francisco's San Francisco City Hall with the interior space lowly lit in an auburn color. The event for an after party for HBO's &quot;Game of Thrones&quot; Season 5." class="wp-image-219000"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests attend the after party for HBO&#8217;s &#8220;Game of Thrones&#8221; Season 5 at San Francisco City Hall on March 23, 2015.</figcaption></figure>

But outside of the global leaders’ conferences and fancy receptions that most of the public are not invited to, there are plenty of other fun things happening in the city for both residents and visitors.

But outside of the global leaders’ conferences and fancy receptions that most of the public are not invited to, there are plenty of other fun things happening in the city for both residents and visitors.

The official APEC website has <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/entertainment">put up a guide</a> to parties and events to explore during the week, including concerts, sporting events, art exhibitions and—of course—places to eat.

The official APEC website has <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/entertainment">put up a guide</a> to parties and events to explore during the week, including concerts, sporting events, art exhibitions and—of course—places to eat.

For music fans, you have way too many choices: According to Chase Center, the prestigious sports and music venue on the city’s east side, the legendary R&amp;B acts <a href="https://www.chasecenter.com/events/lauryn-hill-20231117">Ms. Lauryn Hill &amp; the Fugees will perform on Nov. 17</a> as part of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 25th anniversary tour. Dozens of concerts and show events are also happening across the city, according to the <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/concerts-shows">APEC website</a>.

For music fans, you have way too many choices: According to Chase Center, the prestigious sports and music venue on the city’s east side, the legendary R&amp;B acts <a href="https://www.chasecenter.com/events/lauryn-hill-20231117">Ms. Lauryn Hill &amp; the Fugees will perform on Nov. 17</a> as part of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 25th anniversary tour. Dozens of concerts and show events are also happening across the city, according to the <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/concerts-shows">APEC website</a>.

Singers Pras Michel, left, Ms. Lauryn Hill, center, and Wyclef Jean, right, perform onstage with The Fugees at Crypto.com Arena on November 04, 2023 in Los Angeles.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined3_20231027apechottickets.jpg?w=2500" alt="One woman known as Ms. Lauryn Hill, wearing a large white dress and 2 men known as Pras Michel and Wyclef Jean, wearing bucket hats and casual clothing, collectively known as The Fugees sing and dance on stage while a band performs in the background." class="wp-image-219001"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Singers Pras Michel, left, Ms. Lauryn Hill, center, and Wyclef Jean, right, perform onstage with the Fugees at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Nov. 4.</figcaption></figure>

The Golden State Warriors, who have many fans in Asia, will play at Chase Center <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/miscellaneous" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for multiple nights</a>, too.

The Golden State Warriors, who have many fans in Asia, will play at Chase Center <a href="https://www.apec2023sf.org/miscellaneous" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for multiple nights</a>, too.

In Chinatown, one of the city’s great historic neighborhoods, community leaders are circulating <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603">a long list</a> of events for APEC travelers. This weekend, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinatown Night Market</a> will kick off the celebration, followed by a Korean wine and art social event, night walking tours, dance parties, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">an art-filled block party</a> and more.

In Chinatown, one of the city’s great historic neighborhoods, community leaders are circulating <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603">a long list</a> of events for APEC travelers. This weekend, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinatown Night Market</a> will kick off the celebration, followed by a Korean wine and art social event, night walking tours, dance parties, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02e4cYbtySNG8QHuQDFd6aRpL29VnNjeGMipqTF86676eAUBK9FuqJL433jds3dpovl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">an art-filled block party</a> and more.

On Thursday, former Entertainment Commissioner Steven Lee is hosting a tour of some of the neighborhood’s most famous watering holes, including Li Po, Bow Bow, Mr. Bing’s and others. That same night, the local bar and club Lion’s Den is hosting an APEC afterparty with international DJs, art vendors, tarot card readings and more.

On Thursday, former Entertainment Commissioner Steven Lee is hosting a tour of some of the neighborhood’s most famous watering holes, including Li Po, Bow Bow, Mr. Bing’s and others. That same night, the local bar and club Lion’s Den is hosting an APEC afterparty with international DJs, art vendors, tarot card readings and more.

For foodies, it&#8217;s the right time to be in town. San Francisco Restaurant Week, a longtime local festival that <a href="https://www.sfrestaurantweek.com/restaurants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showcases dozens of restaurants</a>, will provide many special menus for APEC eaters. From Michelin-starred French cuisine to an affordable American brunch, San Francisco’s renowned food scene is on full display during APEC.

For foodies, it's the right time to be in town. San Francisco Restaurant Week, a longtime local festival that <a href="https://www.sfrestaurantweek.com/restaurants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showcases dozens of restaurants</a>, will provide many special menus for APEC eaters. From Michelin-starred French cuisine to an affordable American brunch, San Francisco’s renowned food scene is on full display during APEC.

For foodies, it&#8217;s the right time to be in town. San Francisco Restaurant Week, a longtime local festival that <a href="https://www.sfrestaurantweek.com/restaurants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showcases dozens of restaurants</a>, will provide many special menus for APEC eaters. From Michelin-starred French cuisine to an affordable American brunch, San Francisco’s renowned food scene is on full display during APEC.

Supervisor Joel Engardio wants everyone to have fun: He’s hosting <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11qZAZ3gOz6UsWrP2ikJkahVt6CuPg7uELxVs4DkQkOc/viewform?edit_requested=true" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a bike ride event</a> along the coast where all are welcome to enjoy California’s beautiful sunset and ocean view.

Supervisor Joel Engardio wants everyone to have fun: He’s hosting <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11qZAZ3gOz6UsWrP2ikJkahVt6CuPg7uELxVs4DkQkOc/viewform?edit_requested=true" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a bike ride event</a> along the coast where all are welcome to enjoy California’s beautiful sunset and ocean view.

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/h_9_QqSy59w?feature=shared
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">What exactly is APEC, and why is San Francisco hosting part of it this year? KQED journalist and APEC Host Committee Press Ambassador Priya David Clemens explains. | Video by Jesse Rogala</figcaption></figure>

Forget boring, exclusive APEC meetings. Here’s where the fun parties will be in San Francisco

George Kelly

Security isn&#8217;t always a warm blanket and a teddy bear, a uniformed member of law enforcement, or a surveillance camera. Sometimes, it&#8217;s tall, cold and heavy modular black steel fences, slung from trucks and stacked atop sidewalks to separate the hoi polloi from the higher-ups.

Security isn't always a warm blanket and a teddy bear, a uniformed member of law enforcement, or a surveillance camera. Sometimes, it's tall, cold and heavy modular black steel fences, slung from trucks and stacked atop sidewalks to separate the hoi polloi from the higher-ups.

Security isn&#8217;t always a warm blanket and a teddy bear, a uniformed member of law enforcement, or a surveillance camera. Sometimes, it&#8217;s tall, cold and heavy modular black steel fences, slung from trucks and stacked atop sidewalks to separate the hoi polloi from the higher-ups.

With thousands of dignitaries, diplomats and delegates attending this week&#8217;s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering, San Francisco has been transformed by security infrastructure blocking off zones of exclusion like the Moscone Center, parts of Nob Hill and other stretches of city streets.

With thousands of dignitaries, diplomats and delegates attending this week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering, San Francisco has been transformed by security infrastructure blocking off zones of exclusion like the Moscone Center, parts of Nob Hill and other stretches of city streets.

With thousands of dignitaries, diplomats and delegates attending this week&#8217;s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering, San Francisco has been transformed by security infrastructure blocking off zones of exclusion like the Moscone Center, parts of Nob Hill and other stretches of city streets.

The federal government has declared the APEC conference a &#8220;National Special Security Event,” a designation that underlines the potential for a terrorist attack or major civil disruption. The designation—the first of its kind in Northern California—means the United States Secret Service is heading up security for the event, which is being attended by bigwigs from President Joe Biden to SpaceX boss Elon Musk.&nbsp;

The federal government has declared the APEC conference a "National Special Security Event,” a designation that underlines the potential for a terrorist attack or major civil disruption. The designation—the first of its kind in Northern California—means the United States Secret Service is heading up security for the event, which is being attended by bigwigs from President Joe Biden to SpaceX boss Elon Musk.&nbsp;

The federal government has declared the APEC conference a &#8220;National Special Security Event,” a designation that underlines the potential for a terrorist attack or major civil disruption. The designation—the first of its kind in Northern California—means the United States Secret Service is heading up security for the event, which is being attended by bigwigs from President Joe Biden to SpaceX boss Elon Musk.&nbsp;

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/28/apec-san-francisco-downtown-summit-security-mass-transit-business-impacts/">Here’s Where APEC Will Lock Down San Francisco</a>&nbsp;

Here&#8217;s where APEC will lock down San Francisco

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/28/apec-san-francisco-downtown-summit-security-mass-transit-business-impacts/">Here’s Where APEC Will Lock Down San Francisco</a>&nbsp;

The agency has been tasked with security planning duties, ranging from protection against potential sea and air attacks from drones and manned aircraft to setting up committees to coordinate local, state and federal authorities.

The agency has been tasked with security planning duties, ranging from protection against potential sea and air attacks from drones and manned aircraft to setting up committees to coordinate local, state and federal authorities.

But perhaps no one piece of security infrastructure has been as ubiquitous or surprising as the black security fencing, which was suddenly unloaded from fleets of flatbed trucks over the weekend and installed by scrums of union workers in Day-Glo safety vests. The Standard estimates that at least several miles of modular fencing have been erected around the city since Saturday.

But perhaps no one piece of security infrastructure has been as ubiquitous or surprising as the black security fencing, which was suddenly unloaded from fleets of flatbed trucks over the weekend and installed by scrums of union workers in Day-Glo safety vests. The Standard estimates that at least several miles of modular fencing have been erected around the city since Saturday.

A California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer holds open a large metal gate for another CHP officer on a motorcycle at the intersection of Folsom and 4th streets close to the Moscone Center in San Francisco on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit will take place at San Francisco’s Moscone Center from Monday, November 13 through Friday, November 17 and city government has implemented major steps to create safety and security for the thousands of delegates and visitors coming to the Bay Area. The measures will include heightened local, state and federal police presence, vehicle road closures and detours along with restricted pedestrian access inside the security zone. Additionally, a number of protests are expected throughout the week.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/security-nov-15-3.jpg?w=2500" alt="A California Highway Patrol officer holds open a large metal gate for another CHP officer on a motorcycle at the intersection of a city street." class="wp-image-222079"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A California Highway Patrol officer holds open a large metal gate for another CHP officer on a motorcycle at Folsom and Fourth streets, close to the Moscone Center in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

ARX Perimeters, the U.S. subsidiary of a British firm, appears to be the provider of at least some of the fencing around APEC sites and at security checkpoints.&nbsp;

ARX Perimeters, the U.S. subsidiary of a British firm, appears to be the provider of at least some of the fencing around APEC sites and at security checkpoints.&nbsp;

ARX <a href="https://arxperimeters.com/arx-rentals/high-security-fence-rental/">describes its fencing</a> as available in 8-foot and 12-foot-tall versions. The company says the fences are “anti-scalable,” available from multiple storage yards, rentable within 24 to 48 hours by a quick-quote process and &#8220;designed to be used in the event of anticipated protests, non-peaceful protests, demonstrations, high profile court cases, music festivals, sporting events, political conventions, construction sites, critical infrastructure locations, and more.&#8221;

ARX <a href="https://arxperimeters.com/arx-rentals/high-security-fence-rental/">describes its fencing</a> as available in 8-foot and 12-foot-tall versions. The company says the fences are “anti-scalable,” available from multiple storage yards, rentable within 24 to 48 hours by a quick-quote process and "designed to be used in the event of anticipated protests, non-peaceful protests, demonstrations, high profile court cases, music festivals, sporting events, political conventions, construction sites, critical infrastructure locations, and more."

ARX <a href="https://arxperimeters.com/arx-rentals/high-security-fence-rental/">describes its fencing</a> as available in 8-foot and 12-foot-tall versions. The company says the fences are “anti-scalable,” available from multiple storage yards, rentable within 24 to 48 hours by a quick-quote process and &#8220;designed to be used in the event of anticipated protests, non-peaceful protests, demonstrations, high profile court cases, music festivals, sporting events, political conventions, construction sites, critical infrastructure locations, and more.&#8221;

The fence modules lock together and are often secured in place by concrete roadblocks.&nbsp;

The fence modules lock together and are often secured in place by concrete roadblocks.&nbsp;

When The Standard reached out to ARX, a spokesperson declined to answer questions, saying they were &#8220;unable to provide information specific to this event while it is ongoing&#8221; or &#8220;share financial details or any information related to the security of the event.&#8221;

When The Standard reached out to ARX, a spokesperson declined to answer questions, saying they were "unable to provide information specific to this event while it is ongoing" or "share financial details or any information related to the security of the event."

When The Standard reached out to ARX, a spokesperson declined to answer questions, saying they were &#8220;unable to provide information specific to this event while it is ongoing&#8221; or &#8220;share financial details or any information related to the security of the event.&#8221;

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<figure class="wp-block-video"><video autoplay controls loop muted src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6175.mov" playsinline></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Workers install security fencing along California Street near Powell Street in San Francisco on Sunday for the APEC summit. </figcaption></figure>

Local 16, a unit of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States and Canada (IATSE) that installed at least some of the fencing, did not return a request for comment from The Standard.

Local 16, a unit of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States and Canada (IATSE) that installed at least some of the fencing, did not return a request for comment from The Standard.

Similar fencing has gone up in the wake of prior high-profile events elsewhere in the country. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune <a href="https://www.startribune.com/metro-cities-buying-fencing-to-separate-protesters-police/600229887/?refresh=true" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described several suburban cities&#8217; efforts to purchase such fencing</a> in order to stop attacks on buildings like police headquarters.

Similar fencing has gone up in the wake of prior high-profile events elsewhere in the country. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune <a href="https://www.startribune.com/metro-cities-buying-fencing-to-separate-protesters-police/600229887/?refresh=true" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described several suburban cities' efforts to purchase such fencing</a> in order to stop attacks on buildings like police headquarters.

Similar fencing has gone up in the wake of prior high-profile events elsewhere in the country. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune <a href="https://www.startribune.com/metro-cities-buying-fencing-to-separate-protesters-police/600229887/?refresh=true" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described several suburban cities&#8217; efforts to purchase such fencing</a> in order to stop attacks on buildings like police headquarters.

It is unclear how much the fencing cost to erect or whether it was being paid for by the federal government or out of San Francisco city government coffers.

It is unclear how much the fencing cost to erect or whether it was being paid for by the federal government or out of San Francisco city government coffers.

Protesters, activists and even political cartoonists have taken note of the fencing.

Protesters, activists and even political cartoonists have taken note of the fencing.

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https://twitter.com/XinluShe/status/1724555803536085088?s=20
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“In the lead up to APEC we have seen homeless sweeps and perimeter fencing go up,” Joemae Santos of Malaya Movement SF said in a Friday statement from the No to APEC Coalition on heightened policing around APEC. 

“In the lead up to APEC we have seen homeless sweeps and perimeter fencing go up,” Joemae Santos of Malaya Movement SF said in a Friday statement from the No to APEC Coalition on heightened policing around APEC.

“As always, the city is prioritizing the safety of CEO billionaires while threatening the safety of its most vulnerable residents,” Santos added. “Those of us who plan to peacefully protest APEC’s free trade policies are also worried about the heightened militarization and police presence which impedes our first amendment rights.”

“As always, the city is prioritizing the safety of CEO billionaires while threatening the safety of its most vulnerable residents,” Santos added. “Those of us who plan to peacefully protest APEC’s free trade policies are also worried about the heightened militarization and police presence which impedes our first amendment rights.”

The Standard sent specific questions about the fencing, including unit numbers, costs, sourcing and agency procurement and deployment, to the city&#8217;s Joint Information Center. U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Nathan Herring responded, politely declining to answer in detail.

The Standard sent specific questions about the fencing, including unit numbers, costs, sourcing and agency procurement and deployment, to the city's Joint Information Center. U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Nathan Herring responded, politely declining to answer in detail.

The Standard sent specific questions about the fencing, including unit numbers, costs, sourcing and agency procurement and deployment, to the city&#8217;s Joint Information Center. U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Nathan Herring responded, politely declining to answer in detail.

&#8220;Due to operational security, we do not discuss specifics of security infrastructure. The 2023 APEC Leaders’ Summit was designated a National Special Security Event by the Department of Homeland Security in March 2023,&#8221; Herring told The Standard.

"Due to operational security, we do not discuss specifics of security infrastructure. The 2023 APEC Leaders’ Summit was designated a National Special Security Event by the Department of Homeland Security in March 2023," Herring told The Standard.

&#8220;Due to operational security, we do not discuss specifics of security infrastructure. The 2023 APEC Leaders’ Summit was designated a National Special Security Event by the Department of Homeland Security in March 2023,&#8221; Herring told The Standard.

After citing the event&#8217;s &#8220;significance, size, and attendees,&#8221; Herring said that &#8220;designating an event an NSSE allows for significant resources from the federal government, including security infrastructure, to be used to force multiply all available security resources.&#8221; He added that the infrastructure was &#8220;consistent with that used for other NSSEs such as the United Nations General Assembly and the 2022 African Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C.&#8221;

After citing the event's "significance, size, and attendees," Herring said that "designating an event an NSSE allows for significant resources from the federal government, including security infrastructure, to be used to force multiply all available security resources." He added that the infrastructure was "consistent with that used for other NSSEs such as the United Nations General Assembly and the 2022 African Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C."

After citing the event&#8217;s &#8220;significance, size, and attendees,&#8221; Herring said that &#8220;designating an event an NSSE allows for significant resources from the federal government, including security infrastructure, to be used to force multiply all available security resources.&#8221; He added that the infrastructure was &#8220;consistent with that used for other NSSEs such as the United Nations General Assembly and the 2022 African Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C.&#8221;

No one wants to talk about APEC’s in-your-face fencing, but it’s the symbol of the summit

Kevin Truong

Despite the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/17/san-francisco-budget-deficit-1-4-billion-cuts-london-breed/">expected massive deficit</a>, San Francisco city officials are hoping to scrounge up more funding to support local businesses.

San Francisco in a &#8216;tough spot&#8217; as $1.4B budget deficit looms

Despite the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/17/san-francisco-budget-deficit-1-4-billion-cuts-london-breed/">expected massive deficit</a>, San Francisco city officials are hoping to scrounge up more funding to support local businesses.

A new bill, introduced by Supervisor Connie Chan, would create a $2 million relief fund for small businesses in SoMa that were negatively impacted by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November.

A new bill, introduced by Supervisor Connie Chan, would create a $2 million relief fund for small businesses in SoMa that were negatively impacted by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November.

An additional $250,000 would be used to provide free public transit and parking to encourage more people to visit Chinatown during the Chinese New Year.

An additional $250,000 would be used to provide free public transit and parking to encourage more people to visit Chinatown during the Chinese New Year.

“We spent $40 million, both private and public money on APEC,” said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who represents Chinatown and is a co-sponsor of the proposal. “It seems like this is the least we could do.”

“We spent $40 million, both private and public money on APEC,” said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who represents Chinatown and is a co-sponsor of the proposal. “It seems like this is the least we could do.”

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/apec-aftermath-san-francisco-business-owners/">San Francisco Businesses Say They Were ‘Sacrificial Lambs’ for APEC Summit</a>

San Francisco businesses say they were &#8216;sacrificial lambs&#8217; for APEC summit

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/apec-aftermath-san-francisco-business-owners/">San Francisco Businesses Say They Were ‘Sacrificial Lambs’ for APEC Summit</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apec-relief-fund">APEC Relief Fund</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apec-relief-fund">APEC Relief Fund</h2>

The relief money would be managed by the city’s Office of Workforce and Economic Development, which will determine how to distribute the funds. The bill is subject to approval by the full board and Mayor London Breed.

The relief money would be managed by the city’s Office of Workforce and Economic Development, which will determine how to distribute the funds. The bill is subject to approval by the full board and Mayor London Breed.

Several <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/14/apec-san-francisco-downtown-businesses-hurt/">bars and restaurants</a> close to the Moscone Center geared up to serve APEC attendees but ended up experiencing a wave of cancellations and a major decline in business during the event. Fencing, checkpoints and parking restrictions put in place to protect world leaders and conferencegoers limited mobility and access in the security zone for customers.

Downtown San Francisco businesses fret over &#8216;storm of cancellations&#8217; as APEC kicks off

Several <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/14/apec-san-francisco-downtown-businesses-hurt/">bars and restaurants</a> close to the Moscone Center geared up to serve APEC attendees but ended up experiencing a wave of cancellations and a major decline in business during the event. Fencing, checkpoints and parking restrictions put in place to protect world leaders and conferencegoers limited mobility and access in the security zone for customers.

Dozens of small business owners, residents and community organizers spoke out about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/apec-aftermath-san-francisco-business-owners/">APEC’s negative financial impact</a> during a Board of Supervisors Budget and Finance Committee in December.

Dozens of small business owners, residents and community organizers spoke out about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/apec-aftermath-san-francisco-business-owners/">APEC’s negative financial impact</a> during a Board of Supervisors Budget and Finance Committee in December.

Manuel Ramirez, owner of the Metreon location of the Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon, said many restaurants were swayed by officials to stay open that week with the promise of an increase in business to help make San Francisco “look like a vibrant city.”

Manuel Ramirez, owner of the Metreon location of the Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon, said many restaurants were swayed by officials to stay open that week with the promise of an increase in business to help make San Francisco “look like a vibrant city.”

“They saw us as acceptable collateral damage, the sacrificial lambs for putting San Francisco on the world stage,” he said during the meeting.

“They saw us as acceptable collateral damage, the sacrificial lambs for putting San Francisco on the world stage,” he said during the meeting.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who is also co-sponsoring the bill, said some of the businesses stayed open through the conference in an effort to make it a success, but “for various unforeseen circumstances, paid a heavy price for doing so.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who is also co-sponsoring the bill, said some of the businesses stayed open through the conference in an effort to make it a success, but “for various unforeseen circumstances, paid a heavy price for doing so.

“APEC was a financially successful endeavor for the city, but a number of small businesses suffered undue hardships that I think we have a moral obligation to mitigate,” Dorsey said in a statement to The Standard about the bill.&nbsp;

“APEC was a financially successful endeavor for the city, but a number of small businesses suffered undue hardships that I think we have a moral obligation to mitigate,” Dorsey said in a statement to The Standard about the bill.&nbsp;

Nate Haas, who owns Barbary Coast, a cannabis dispensary and smoke lounge in SoMa, said the relief fund proposal is perhaps a bit late for those who suffered the negative business impacts from APEC but welcome news nonetheless.

Nate Haas, who owns Barbary Coast, a cannabis dispensary and smoke lounge in SoMa, said the relief fund proposal is perhaps a bit late for those who suffered the negative business impacts from APEC but welcome news nonetheless.

“The fact that the city is willing to do anything really; I’ll take it,” Haas said. “Of course, knowing how to navigate the city agencies and figure out how to get that money is somewhat of a different story.”

“The fact that the city is willing to do anything really; I’ll take it,” Haas said. “Of course, knowing how to navigate the city agencies and figure out how to get that money is somewhat of a different story.”

Free Muni and Parking for Chinese New Year

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-free-muni-and-parking-for-chinese-new-year">Free Muni and Parking for Chinese New Year</h2>

To encourage people to visit Chinatown for Lunar New Year, Chan’s bill would provide free citywide Muni service on Feb. 24, the day of the Chinese New Year parade. The funding would also pay for free two-hour parking in Portsmouth Square Garage and St. Mary&#8217;s Square Garage in Chinatown for the whole month of February.

To encourage people to visit Chinatown for Lunar New Year, Chan’s bill would provide free citywide Muni service on Feb. 24, the day of the Chinese New Year parade. The funding would also pay for free two-hour parking in Portsmouth Square Garage and St. Mary's Square Garage in Chinatown for the whole month of February.

To encourage people to visit Chinatown for Lunar New Year, Chan’s bill would provide free citywide Muni service on Feb. 24, the day of the Chinese New Year parade. The funding would also pay for free two-hour parking in Portsmouth Square Garage and St. Mary&#8217;s Square Garage in Chinatown for the whole month of February.

Richard Ow Yau Kung Moon Lion Dance troupe pose for photos before the Lunar New Year Parade on Feb. 19, 2022. | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/FEATURE_-BiggestAsianIssues12072022-2-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Lunar new year lion dance" class="wp-image-108404"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisors have also proposed setting aside funds to provide free transit for this year&#8217;s Chinese New Year parade.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/FEATURE_-BiggestAsianIssues12072022-2-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Lunar new year lion dance" class="wp-image-108404"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisors have also proposed setting aside funds to provide free transit for this year's Chinese New Year parade.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/FEATURE_-BiggestAsianIssues12072022-2-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Lunar new year lion dance" class="wp-image-108404"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisors have also proposed setting aside funds to provide free transit for this year&#8217;s Chinese New Year parade.</figcaption></figure>

Journalist claims Chinese government attacked him during APEC; Congress demands probe

Forget boring, exclusive APEC meetings. Here’s where the fun parties will be in San Francisco

No one wants to talk about APEC’s in-your-face fencing, but it’s the symbol of the summit

San Francisco may pay businesses hurt by APEC $2M

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Search Results for: apec

Journalist claims Chinese government attacked him during APEC; Congress demands probe

Forget boring, exclusive APEC meetings. Here’s where the fun parties will be in San Francisco

No one wants to talk about APEC’s in-your-face fencing, but it’s the symbol of the summit

San Francisco may pay businesses hurt by APEC $2M

Deal reached for Biden-Xi talks at APEC San Francisco, but details still being worked out