For the second time in two years, artists working in West Oakland, CA, will dramatize the beleaguered community’s resilience and creativity, identifying its power for self-revitalization as living heritage, in a high-energy collaborative event named West Oakland Matters, taking place July 26th at the 7th West community hub in Oakland.

The day long event, free to the public, rallies artists, entrepreneurs, scholars, journalists, community leaders and residents in its production of exhibits, public discussions, histories, food and music.

“West Oakland residents have, for decades, met hostile historical forces with resistance and resilience,” stressed event founder Malcolm Ryder. “Today they are focused on the revitalization of their community, and self-empowerment to do it. But the environment for cultural tolerance and social justice has suddenly taken an especially dangerous turn for the worse. It will never be more important to make this statement than now.”

Curated to highlight the significance of art in amplifying voices and autonomy, West Oakland Matters builds on recent scholarship that underscores the role of art in social change. Above all, it stands on collaboration as a strategy for making creativity the major influence on the power of a community to chart its own future.

Its exhibits feature paintings and photography, film and fashion, music and memories. Longtime residents and elders will bring archival materials. Vendors offer vintage clothing. The day is rich with Information about local treasures like the 16th Street Train Station, locally made crafts, and resources like area walking tours.

Finally, a discussion panel of leading men and women focused on West Oakland’s creative solutions showcases ambitious enterprises that are now coming to fruition.

• When?

  • Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 3 PM to 8 PM PST

• Where?

  • 7th West at at 1255 7th Street Oakland, CA 94607

Ticket Website: http://westoaklandmatters.org