KQED's Forum Live From East Oakland: Can $100 Million Revitalize Oakland’s Black Community?
May 22, 2025
Join Gregory Hodge, CEO of the Brotherhood of Elders Network, Carolyn "CJ" Johnson of the Black Cultural Zone, Selena Wilson from the East Oakland Youth Development Center, and Dr. Noha Aboelata of Roots Community Clinic as they discuss the transformative Rise East initiative. They explore how a $100 million investment aims to revitalize East Oakland’s Black community through education, health care, and economic development. The conversation highlights the resilience of local culture, the fight against gentrification, and the importance of community-driven solutions.
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East Oakland's Key Asset: People
- East Oakland's greatest asset is its people and diversity.
- It boasts unique culture, history, and community resilience despite challenges.
Structural Racism Impacts Health
- Historical systemic racism shaped East Oakland's health disparities.
- Communities face compounded issues from pollution to over-policing and poor health outcomes.
East Oakland's Social Justice Legacy
- East Oakland birthed major social justice movements like Black Panthers' free breakfast.
- Despite higher poverty, the community shows immense resiliency and pride.