FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SUSTAINING ROOTS and DEVELOPING A LEGACY
WHAT: Building the Center for ArtEsteem Pre-Groundbreaking Ceremony
WHEN: October 5, 2022 @ 2:30PM
WHERE: 3111 West Street, Oakland, CA 94608
CONTACT: Amana Harris, 510-652-5530/amana@ahc-oakland.org
The Center for ArtEsteem, also known as Attitudinal Healing Connection (AHC - Oakland) invites the public to the “Building the Center for ArtEsteem” Pre-Groundbreaking Ceremony celebrating its recent property and land acquisition, plans for the city, and capital campaign achievements as it prepares for renovations during Phase I.
With Special Guest Mayor Libby Schaaf joined by Councilmembers Reid, Sheng, Taylor and a representative from Councilwoman Fife’s office, the event will engage the community in offering their blessings while serving as a testament to the kind of BIPOC community resiliency needed in Oakland.
As waves of displacement continue, BIPOC communities again are experiencing the catastrophic footprints of inequity from the onslaught of development, tech takeovers, and gentrification. Recovery from real estate policies from the urban redevelopment era of the 50’s that redlined and marginalized communities of color never had the chance to effectively take root. While these systematic practices have devastatingly curbed the tide of progress, for BIPOC communities and artists an opportunity for atonement arises.
The “Building the Center for ArtEsteem” Capital Campaign and Building Project will transform and beautify 5,000 square feet of land and property in West Oakland. Taking place in two phases, AHC will assume site ownership, renovate an existing building, and move organizational operations to its new home at 3111 West Street during Phase I. During Phase 2, AHC will construct a new studio, exhibition, and community event space at 3115 West Street. This effort will provide arts and healing opportunities for children, youth and families for decades to come.
As a longtime West Oakland resident and native I’ve seen so many changes that have not been
in our best interest. Knowing that The Center for ArtEsteem will be able to continue and grow
its vital arts and healing work through this important capital project brings hope and a
sense of reciprocity that will better the lives of the people in our community.
– Paul Cobb, Oakland Post Publisher
Since its founding in 1989, AHC has operated from the ground floor of a duplex, an industrial warehouse, and an office building, making for a pattern of location instability that set the organization's board and leadership on a critical mission to own its destiny. This project is a testament to and model for Oakland BIPOC residents and organizational leaders.
The mission of The Center for ArtEsteem is to empower individuals to be self-aware and inspired through art, creativity and education; to make positive choices to break the cycle of violence for ourselves and our communities.