Olivia Cruz Maeda, a reporter behind the KQED docuseries 'Deep Down', discusses a transformative $100 million investment in Deep East Oakland. She shares the community's rich history, emphasizing resilience amid challenges like disinvestment and the crack epidemic. The conversation highlights residents' aspirations for local improvements, focusing on combatting homelessness and fostering economic growth. With the community deciding how to use the funding, optimism flourishes as they aim to reclaim and revitalize their neighborhood.
The $100 million investment in Deep East Oakland aims to empower residents by allowing them to decide how to utilize funds for community needs.
Community leaders emphasize the importance of creating culturally enriching spaces to foster pride, joy, and safety for future generations.
Deep dives
Investment and Community Empowerment in Deep East Oakland
Deep East Oakland, historically marginalized and affected by disinvestment, is now seeing a significant $100 million investment aimed at revitalization. This funding comes from Blue Meridian Partners, which offers a matching fund model to encourage local community engagement. Local residents, including figures like Carolyn Johnson, are taking charge to ensure the investment benefits the community, particularly focusing on housing, small business development, and cultural projects. The goal is to create spaces owned by and for the community, allowing residents to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
Community Aspirations for Development
Residents of Deep East Oakland express a strong desire for meaningful change that addresses pressing community needs, such as support for the houseless population and investment in local businesses. They envision a future where entertainment and cultural venues, like roller skating rinks and theaters, are accessible within their own neighborhoods, reducing the need to travel outside for recreation. Leaders like Carolyn Johnson emphasize creating community-centric spaces that promote joy and safety, reinforcing the importance of an enriching environment for current and future generations. Securing these community hubs is recognized as a critical step toward restoring pride and fostering a vibrant local culture.
Long-Term Vision and Responsibility
While the $100 million investment presents exciting opportunities, community leaders acknowledge that it is merely the beginning of a longer journey towards substantial change. Leaders are motivated but aware of the immense challenges ahead, estimating that true revitalization could require investments totaling billions to truly meet the community's needs. There's a shared commitment among residents and local organizations to maintain a vision that extends beyond immediate improvements, focusing on long-term sustainability and empowerment. By building on their historical roots, the community aspires to cultivate an environment where future generations can thrive and take pride in their heritage.
Deep East Oakland used to be a thriving community with movie theaters and bowling alleys. But the crack cocaine epidemic and decades of disinvestment hit the community hard. Now, a $100 million philanthropic investment is coming to this part of Oakland, and people from the community will decide how to use it.
Reporter Olivia Cruz Mayeda joins us to talk about ‘Deep Down,’ a new series on KQED Arts and Culture that explores the hopes and dreams of Deep East Oakland residents as they look towards this new investment.