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The voice of broadcasting and Major League Baseball, Renel Brooks-Moon, had one of those rarest-of-rare moments in life: nostalgic yet celebratory. She was the rare recipient of a highly prestigious Key to the City of San Francisco bestowed by Mayor London Breed. Family, friends, and co-workers took the time to celebrate Brooks-Moon’s illustrious career and the indelible mark she leaves on the community. “Renel, you’re a genius,” said Mayor Breed. “Growing up in this city, I would hear you every morning on the radio, bringing so much creativity, joy, and positive energy into our days.
You’ve been a trailblazer in every sense of the word.” Breed emphasized Brooks-Moon’s contributions not only as a broadcaster but also as a community advocate, highlighting her involvement with charitable organizations like Glide and her efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer.
Brooks-Moon, who became the first African-American female public address announcer for a Major League Baseball team when she joined the San Francisco Giants, reflected on her journey with emotion. “It almost feels like my wedding day again,” she said. “I’m seeing so many people who have supported me throughout my career. To receive this honor from London Breed is so significant—it’s full circle for us.”
The ceremony was a testament to Brooks-Moon’s multifaceted legacy. From her early days on Bay Area radio stations like KMEL and KFRC to her groundbreaking role with the Giants, she has inspired countless individuals. “I never imagined I’d be on the radio or working in Major League Baseball,” she shared. “Back then, girls weren’t playing sports or dreaming of these roles. But impossible dreams can come true.”
Mayor Breed also praised Brooks-Moon for her resilience in navigating non-traditional industries as a woman of color. “You made history and gave people hope,” Breed said. “Your voice at Giants games brought comfort and excitement. You’ve shown up for this city time and time again.”
Brooks-Moon dedicated the honor to her late parents, Nathaniel and Juanita Bruce, for the community service they instilled in her. “My father was San Francisco’s first Black high school principal, and my mother was a pioneering educator,” she said. “They taught me about giving back—it’s just what you do.”
Other gifts for Brooks-Moon included flowers and an engraved Tiffany Blue box to store her World Series rings. “We rest, we reflect, and then we get back to work,” she said tearfully in concluding her remarks, naming herself particularly grateful for this acknowledgment of the hard year it’s been for Black women.
And it is here that Renel Brooks-Moon’s legacy passes into the annals of San Francisco history-a city she has served untiringly with her voice, advocacy, and dedication.
