Celebrating Black Creativity in Oakland
A Night of Art and Expression
Hosted by Oakland City Council President Kevin Jenkins and fellow Councilmembers Carroll Fife, Ken Houston, and Rowena Brown, the highly-anticipated event on Thursday night promises to be a vibrant showcase of Black creativity in Oakland. Featuring an exciting lineup, the evening will highlight the unique contributions of Black artists, chefs, and authors, encapsulating the heartbeat of the community.
Performances that Inspire
Among the standout performances will be Dee Dee Simon, a former contestant on America’s Got Talent. Known for her powerful voice and captivating stage presence, Simon is set to bring her energy to the occasion. Also gracing the stage is RyanNicole, a dynamic MC and spoken word poet whose work resonates with themes of identity, resilience, and community.
A Taste of Black Heritage
Culinary offerings at the event will reflect the rich culinary traditions of the African diaspora. Featuring notable chefs like Nigel Jones of Calabash and Kingston 11, attendees can expect delicious dishes that celebrate heritage through food. Known for his signature slow-roasted jerk chicken, Jones will serve this dish alongside rice and peas and sweet plantains, ensuring a flavorful experience.
Caterer Jusala, and barbecue veterans Everett & Jones, led by Dottie Moore, will also provide delightful tastes, making it a feast for everyone’s palate. It’s important to arrive early, as all food will be served free on a first-come, first-served basis, encouraging attendees to come together to enjoy these culinary delights.
Authors Making an Impact
The event will feature a special Black Authors’ Corner, where attendees can meet and hear from impactful figures such as Wanda Johnson, the mother of Oscar Grant. Johnson, who authored a memoir detailing her son’s tragic death, offers an important voice in the dialogue surrounding social justice and community healing. This corner serves as a powerful reminder of the narratives that shape the culture and history of Black communities.
Wachira Wines: A Taste of Culture
Guests will also have the unique opportunity to taste wines from Wachira Wine, a Kenyan American winery. Dr. Chris Wachira will be pouring complimentary samples, introducing attendees to the flavors and stories behind these wines, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the evening.
Reflections from Local Chefs
Reflecting on the challenges faced by many Black-owned businesses, Chef Nigel Jones articulates the resilience displayed by the community. He candidly shares the difficulties that independent restaurants, particularly those that lack a financial safety net, have endured over the past few years, especially during COVID-19. Despite the adversities, he expresses a hopeful outlook for Oakland’s future.
“Oakland doesn’t have tech. We don’t have oil. We don’t have any anchor stores to drive people downtown. But what we do have is culture,” Jones states, shedding light on the importance of investing in and supporting cultural initiatives within the city. His enthusiasm is echoed by many in the community, especially evident during events like the recent Black Joy Parade, which drew thousands and showcased the vibrancy of Black culture.
Event Details
Those interested in participating in this extraordinary celebration can find the Oakland’s Black History Month centennial celebration happening on February 26th from 6–9 p.m. at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts, located at 10 10th St., Oakland. The event is free and open to the public, inviting everyone to enjoy a night rich in culture and creativity. Attendees are encouraged to don “African swag or business attire,” further nurturing a sense of community and pride.
As Oakland continues to honor its heritage and promote local talent, events like these provide not just entertainment but also a platform for voices that often go unheard, weaving the stories and flavors of Black culture into the fabric of the city.
