Oakland Post, week of January 21 - 27, 2026

Oakland Post

Oakland Police Department Welcomes 14 New Officers

By Post Staff

The Oakland Police Department (OPD) welcomed 14 new officers from the 195th Basic Recruit Academy at a ceremony on Friday, Jan. 16, at the Scottish Rite Center in Oakland.

“As officers for the City of Oakland, our primary responsibility goes beyond addressing crime; it is to foster trust and work

alongside our community, engaging openly and treating everyone with respect,” Interim Oakland Police Chief James Beere told the graduates. “You are here to serve Oakland. Put community needs (first), especially when people are vulnerable. Act with professionalism, compassion, and integrity in every moment. I am counting on you. Our families are count-

By Carla Thomas

By 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 19, there was no visible sign of smoke or flames at the corner of 19th Street and Broadway in downtown Oakland.

Earlier that morning, around 7 a.m., a three-alarm fire broke out inside a residential unit of a five-story apartment building that housed more than 200 residents and several small businesses.

Clutching her drowsy, vanilla-colored chihuahua, a resident who identified herself only as “E.” recalled escaping the flames by climbing to the rooftop, where firefighters rescued her using a ladder.

Standing nearby behind yellow police tape, another displaced resident, “Ace,” carried only a backpack and clutched Red Cross blankets. He had been at work when the fire erupt-

ing on you. Oakland is counting on you.”

Said Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, “I want to thank the men and women of the 195th Academy Class for answering the call to serve Oakland at this critical moment for the City. Their decision to wear this badge is an act of courage, commitment, and lead-

By Carla Thomas

In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. and the women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. in the Bay Area committed their “Day of Service” to the Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB) at the organization’s headquarters on Edgewater Street in Oakland on Jan. 19.

Approximately 75 members of the “Blue and White” family

ed. Both residents expressed relief at having survived but uncertainty about what lay ahead as they waited for guidance from Red Cross staff.

Oakland City Councilmember Carroll Fife, who represents District 3 where the fire happened, remained on site throughout the day, accompanying emergency crews and helping coordinate temporary housing for displaced residents. According to fire officials, a lithium battery is believed to have sparked the blaze in a secondfloor apartment. Several residents were treated for smoke inhalation, and one firefighter sustained injuries. No fatalities were reported.

With most businesses closed in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, downtown streets were relatively quiet, allowing room for the approximately 50 firefighters who responded to battle and contain the flames. By early afternoon, the building was red-tagged and deemed uninhabitable due to extensive fire

By Debra Gore

I am beginning a series of articles examining reparations through diverse and competing narratives, open to understanding the past and building stronger, more equitable communities.

I start with a willow tree — once a symbol of Russell City, a Black and Hispanic community erased by eminent domain. The tree’s recent removal underscores how unresolved harm continues to shape our present.

Russell City was a workingclass community south of Hayward. Families owned homes, raised children, and built institutions. Beginning in the mid-20th century, the City of Hayward and

joined two other organizations at the Food Bank’s warehouse to sort food.

Divided into groups of five, each team was provided a tall pallet of potatoes, onions, or fruit. At each table, volunteers repackaged the super-sized quantities of produce into smaller bags and stacked piles of vegetables and fruits for future distribution.

The men and women dressed in the signature blue and white paraphernalia of their organiza-

tions and enthusiastically handled the task in under two hours.

ACCFB leadership addressed the volunteers at the end of the shift, declaring the group had successfully packaged nearly 18,000 pounds of food for about 15,000 residents.

“We can really make a difference when we come together,” said Kenya Broadnax, an Epsilon Phi Zeta chapter representative of the sorority. “And what bet-

Alameda County used eminent domain, zoning regulations, and public health claims to displace residents. Homes were demolished, families were forced out, and the community was erased.

The justification was “public use.” Much of the land was later transferred or sold to private entities. The economic value generated did not return to the families who lost property, housing stability, or the chance to build intergenerational wealth. Russell City did not disappear because it failed. It was removed through public action. For decades, one visible remnant remained: a willow tree planted in 1963 by the grandmother of the Johnson and Patterson families. The families have remained active in seeking justice through the Russell City Reparative Justice Project, initiated by the City of Hayward in response to calls to address inequitable treatment of Russell City residents during redevelopment. In the absence of plaques or formal memorials, the tree became a

By Carla Thomas

say the story doesn’t add up.

For 68-year-old Terry Lovett of Oakland, the devastating phone call from deputies informing her that her 27-year-old son Jalani Lovett had been found unresponsive in his jail cell was one she said she will never forget.

Lovett was serving time for second-degree robbery at the Los Angeles Men’s Central Jail when he died in 2021. The department’s official autopsy claimed that fentanyl toxicity caused his death. But when Terry Lovett later obtained the autopsy photos, she said she saw injuries that were never mentioned in the report.

“His entire left side had bruises,” Lovett said, describing what she saw as evidence of physical abuse. “He even had a hole in the back of his head.”

Since her son’s death, Lovett has spent five years demanding answers

and pushing for accountability. She now aims to raise $15,000 to fund an independent autopsy that she believes will reveal the truth. According to Lovett, the FBI has indicated it would review the case if a second autopsy produces new evidence.

On Jan. 11, Lovett marked what would have been Jalani’s 32nd birthday by hosting a community gathering and fundraiser at Unit 275 in East Oakland’s Eastmont Mall.

The event featured a short documentary, “Justice for Jalani and All Victims of In-Custody Deaths,” about her ongoing fight for justice, produced by Chay and Joshua of the Oakland Alliance Against Racism and Political Oppression. The sixminute film included Lovett recounting her son’s story alongside images showing the injuries she says were ignored in official reports.

City of Oakland Special to The Post

Oakland director Ryan Coogler’s most recent film, “Sinners,”

has achieved an unprecedented accolade from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) when the nominations for this year’s academy awards were announced on Thursday.

The film was nominated in all 16 of the categories it was competing for: Picture, Actor, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Director, Original Screenplay, Cinematography, Costume Design, Editing, Make-up and Styling, Original Score, Original Song, Production Design, Best Sound, Best Visual Effects and Best Casting.

Previously, the highest number of nominations had been 14.

Remarks from Oakland Mayor

Barbara Lee appear below.

“Oakland is incredibly proud to celebrate the historic achievement of our own Ryan Coogler, whose film ‘Sinners’ has shattered records with 16 Academy Award nominations – the most Oscar nominations any film has ever received.

“This is truly an Oakland triumph. Director Ryan Coogler, an Oakland native, continues to put our city on the map with his visionary storytelling. Oakland’s Delroy Lindo earned a well-deserved Best Supporting Actor nomination. And Oakland music legend Raphael Saadiq received a Best Original Song nomination for “I

Attorney Gen. Bonta Secures $425M Settlement Against Capital One

By Bo Tefu California Black Media

California Attorney General

By Solomon O. Smith, California Black Media

Responding to recent fatal shootings and an uptick in misconduct and excessive use-offorce incidents by federal policing agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), California lawmakers are proposing some legal guardrails to prevent them and hold officers accountable.

Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights) recently authored legislation to place limits on federal officers operating in the Golden State.

Bryan is highlighting two recent killings by ICE agents in Minnesota and California.

“If you were out in the streets

protesting the murder of Renee Good and the murder of Keith Porter,” said Bryan in a TikTok video, “I’ve got a piece of legislation for you.”

In his message, Bryan was referring to Renee Good, a 37 year old Minneapolis woman who was fatally shot by an ICE agent on Jan. 7, and Keith Porter, 43, a Los Angeles resident and father of two who was also fatally shot on New Year’s Eve by Brian Palacios, an off-duty ICE officer.

“His heart was big. He had big heart. He loved so deep, he loved so deep,” said Porter’s mother Franceola Armstrong at an L.A. City Council meeting. “He was a joy. He was my baby. He was a

Rob Bonta helped secure a $425 million settlement with Capital One that would provide restitution and improved interest rates for customers who were allegedly misled about their savings accounts, state officials announced Jan. 13.

The settlement, which received preliminary court approval last week, resolves claims that Capital One unfairly kept interest rates artificially low for holders of its 360 Savings accounts while offering significantly higher rates through a nearly identical product. If finalized, the agreement will require Capital One to pay $425 million in restitution and eliminate what regulators described as a misleading two-tiered savings system.

Bonta joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general last year in opposing an earlier pro-

posed class action settlement that state officials said failed to adequately compensate consumers. The revised agreement more than doubles the value of that initial proposal and grants multiple states enforcement authority.

“Capital One misled consumers through false marketing and a lack of transparency regarding its savings account system, cheating consumers nationwide,” said Bonta. He added that the earlier proposal was “unacceptable and hopelessly inadequate,” saying California consumers “deserve a fair deal and someone fighting in their corner.”

According to state officials, Capital One marketed its 360 Savings accounts as “high interest” products that would outperform average savings accounts. However, while interest rates rose nationwide beginning in 2022, the bank kept rates on those accounts low. At the same time, it introduced 360 Performance Savings

By Tony Khing

Adrienne Shelton has a way of putting herself in others’ shoes.

As a PG&E employee recently marking 20 years with the company, she works to resolve billing issues with large customers. In her hometown of Oakland, she’s on the lookout for ways to make a difference, volunteering at her church, her kid’s school, and as she says, “just anywhere.”

If anyone’s looking for an example of being empathetic, look no further.

‘Our customers come first’

As a customer success manager, Adrienne supports her coworkers who work with large agriculture and industrial customers. When someone has a problem with billing that’s been escalated from an account manager, Adrienne works to “resolve these concerns before they become bigger issues.”

Recently, PG&E changed the billing format for customers who

are manually billed. In the past, they got two bills: one that summarized everything and one that was more detailed and broke down the various billing components. The new format has everything on one bill.

“Some of our customers create internal reports based on how we presented the information,” said Adrienne. “But now, they’re not seeing the detail as they had in the past. They’ve had problems reconciling their books. Change can be hard. They’re used to seeing things in a certain way.

“I put myself in their shoes,” she added. “I ask myself what would make me satisfied? I make sure our customers come first.”

Besides being empathetic, Adrienne consistently shows characteristics valued at PG&E: tenacity, curiosity and ownership.

“Much of my role involves encouraging people to accomplish tasks and working with internal

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Public Notices, Classifieds & Business

OPINION: One Year in — Things Will Get Worse Before They Get Better

By Emil Guillermo

It’s been a year.

It feels like 50.

That’s not a good thing when the president of the United States is taking us — and the world — backward.

It’s the great regression. Right when we thought we had achieved a dream. You know the feeling. Not just when America elected its first African American president. Go further back to when the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, the Immigration Act of 1965 were all new pillars of our democracy.

And now they are all being dismantled because in Novem-

ber 2024, just enough among us, preferred CFDT 34.

That’s my moniker for the man known as “convicted felon Donald Trump, 34 counts.”

It’s the bold truth. That’s who he is. And now we have to deal with this reality. Along with the real reality.

How’s your utility bill? Can you pay the rent? Did you find a job? Can you afford the credit card debt that is building up because you are using the card to buy groceries? Oh, the groceries, which aren’t going down in price. Meat eaters you can join me and become vegan. Beans and rice are nutritious. And they will help you keep your health care costs down. You do still have your health

insurance, don’t you?

You don’t?

This is America under Trump, 2026.

The president will call “affordability” a fake word. But you know how you feel. Is it fake?

He doesn’t get it. THAT ONE-YEAR NEWS CONFERENCE. VICTORY LAP

All you have to do is watch that news conference he gave on Jan. 19, on the one-year anniversary of his presidency.

It was egotistical, demented, defensive over immigration and Minnesota and the fatal shoot-

ing of Renee Good by ICE. He barely talks about affordability, but lies about it, saying that he saved America from Biden’s “stagflation.” The truth?

The U.S. was nowhere near the double digits of stagflation in the ‘70s.

But he’s not interested in facts, nor in you.

POST-MLK DAY

Maybe you saw how things have changed on MLK Day this past week. The spirit of the day seemed to be waning, especially amongst young people.

Could it be because this administration has attacked diver-

Continued

Medi-Cal Helps You Stay Healthy: Use Your Medi-Cal Benefits

Special to the Post

Taking care of your health shouldn’t wait until you’re already sick. Medi-Cal gives California adults — including Black families, seniors, parents, and caregivers — access to free or low-cost care designed to help people stay healthy, not just treat illness. However, many Medi-Cal members are not using benefits they already qualify for, including dental checkups, vision exams, medications, and preventive screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.

Medi-Cal is one of California’s most dependable health programs. And there’s never been a better time to take advantage of these benefits. The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), which oversees Medi-Cal, confirms that most members will keep all of their benefits in 2025–26, including preventive care, dental and vision services, mental health support, and prescription coverage.

Medi-Cal provides health coverage to more than 14 million Californians, more than one-third of the state’s population. Over the past decade, eligibility has expanded, strength-

partners to implement changes,”

said Adrienne. “For example, I might say, ‘This customer requires their information formatted in a certain way. Even if only a few customers need this, it’s essential for them to balance their numbers and keep their businesses running.’

“I reach out to anyone necessary to ensure we can implement the change, and I don’t accept ‘no’ easily,” she continued. “I’ll escalate the issue as far as possible until I determine it truly can’t be done.”

Adrienne enjoys solving problems. When a customer explains their needs, she views it as an opportunity rather than a challenge.

“That’s part of why I enjoy my job,” she explained. “Each day brings something different, and we get to work out how to find solutions.”

Making a difference in the community

Not only does Adrienne practice being empathetic at work, she also brings that trait to her community in Oakland.

“My church has a feeding ministry that feeds the community twice a week,” said Adrienne. “I go as often as I can. For Thanksgiving, I took my kids and family

churches. Freedom allowed them to worship without White control and to choose their own pastors.

One of the earliest and most important churches was First African Baptist Church, founded in 1777. Similar churches soon spread across the South and North. These churches became the center of Black community life, offering education, mutual aid, and leadership training.

During Reconstruction, Black Baptist churches helped establish schools, colleges, mutual aid societies, and political organizing spaces. Pastors were often among the most educated African Americans in their communities and became trusted leaders. Baptist churches helped create major institutions such as National Baptist Convention, founded in 1895. This orga-

ening one of the nation’s largest health safety nets.

Why Preventive Care Matters — Especially for Black Adults

Black Californians are more likely to live with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease, or vision loss, yet are less likely to schedule regular checkups or use dental and vision benefits — even when those services are fully covered by Medi-Cal.

State data show that only about 40% of adults on MediCal had a dental visit last year, and fewer than 30% used vision benefits for eye exams or glasses. Many adults delay care until pain, infection, or vision loss occurs, when treatment can become more complicated.

Preventive care protects long-term health, independence, and family stability. Using Medi-Cal benefits early can help people manage conditions before they become emergencies.

What Medi-Cal Covers for Adults

Medi-Cal covers a full range of services, including annual checkups and screenings; vision exams and medically nec-

and we served dinner to the homeless.”

Adrienne has also been a member of the company’s Black Employee Resource Group for 19 of her 20 years. This past year, one of her ERG responsibilities was supporting the scholarship program, which provides awards to college-bound students.

“The students are very appreciative when they get their scholarship checks and have someone follow up with them,” she said. “It’s important to make a difference in their lives.”

Perhaps Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would be proud of Adrienne, who honors his legacy by making service a part of her life— not just for one day, but every day.

On Jan. 19, Adrienne and her family will be taking the Celebration Train from San Jose to San Francisco and then participate in the annual march through the city to honor King’s birthday.

Her motivation is deeply personal. Her father grew up in segregated Arkansas, and his stories shaped her understanding of resilience, justice and gratitude.

“It’s important for my kids to know their history and how fortunate we are to be in this time and place,” she said. “We’re so blessed to have many of the things we have. It’s important we don’t take any of that for granted.”

nization became the largest African American religious group in the United States.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Black Baptist churches were central to the Civil Rights Movement. Churches served as meeting places where people organized boycotts, marches, and voter registration drives.

One of the most famous Baptist leaders was Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister who used his faith to promote nonviolence, justice, and equality. His leadership showed how deeply the Baptist Church was connected to the fight for civil rights.

Today, African American Baptist churches continue to be places of spiritual guidance and social action. They provide youth programs, food pantries, mental health support, and community advocacy.

Black Baptist churches remain vital institutions that preserve culture, uplift communities, and inspire future generations.

essary glasses or contact lenses; dental care such as cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, and dentures; mental health services; prescription medications; and hospital and emergency care. Most services are free or have no copayments for adults who meet income requirements.

How to Use Dental and Vision Benefits

Adults can access dental care through Medi-Cal Dental, which covers cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, and dentures at little or no cost. To find a dentist, visit SmileCalifornia.org or call 1-800-322-6384.

Vision care is just as easy to

accounts that offered much higher interest rates, at one point more than 14 times higher than the original product.

Regulators said the practice allowed Capital One to save nearly $3 billion in interest payments. Under the new settlement, the bank must align interest rates between the two savings products, ending the two-tier structure. The agreement is expected to deliver an estimated $530 million in additional future interest to consumers nationwide.

The settlement also resolves related claims brought by attorneys general in California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minne-

father.”

Last week, Palacios was publicly identified after his name surfaced in a custodyrelatedcourt filing, according to reporting by the Los Angeles Times.

AB 1537, the legislation Bryan authored and introduced would prohibit state and local law enforcement officers from moonlighting for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, its contractors, or any other entity involved in immigration enforcement.

The push for AB 1537 responds to a number of recent clashes between protesters and ICE in major cities across the country. Thousands of ICE officers have been deployed in Minneapolis, and in California violent conflicts between ICE and protesters have resulted in major injuries.

Authorities allege that Porter was firing a gun to mark the New Year, an activity his cousin, Jsane Tyler, said was not uncommon in the neighborhood where he lived in Northridge.

According to the Department of Homeland Security’s assistant secretary of homeland affairs, Tricia McLaughlin, Palacios claimed to have heard the gunshot Porter allegedly fired

access. Medi-Cal health plan members can schedule eye exams and glasses by calling the number on the back of their Medi-Cal ID card or by contacting the Medi-Cal Member Help Line at 1-800-541-5555.

CalAIM is Transforming How Care Works for MediCal Members Through CalAIM (California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal), the state is improving how medical, mental health, and social services work together.

Two major CalAIM programs are helping make better care. Enhanced Care Management (ECM) provides a per-

sota, Nevada, New York, Ohio, and Rhode Island. The resolution prohibits Capital One from making false or deceptive statements about interest rates on deposit accounts and allows states to enforce consumer relief provisions.

Bonta credited New York Attorney General Letitia James for leading the multistate effort and said the outcome highlights the importance of state enforcement actions, particularly after the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau dismissed a related case.

Final approval of the settlement will be determined by the court at a later date. If approved, the agreement would mark one of the largest consumer restitution settlements involving savings account interest practices.

and confronted him.

“On Dec. 31, an off-duty ICE officer bravely responded to an active shooter situation at his apartment complex,” reads McLaughlin’s statement.

The district attorney’s Justice System Integrity Division is running a parallel investigation with the LAPD Robbery and Homicide Division, according to a communications officer at the LAPD.

Both the LAPD and the U.S. Department of Justice declined to comment on an active investigation but referred CBM to older published statements about the shooting and the ongoing investigation.

Porter’s family has hired a lawyer, Jamal Tooson, and has held press briefings, with the help of Black Lives Matter L.A., where they continue to challenge authorities in L.A. to arrest Palacios.

In nearby Orange County, a 21-year-old protester, Kaden Rummler, was shot point-blank in the face with a less-thanlethal round by federal officers. Rummler lost an eye and was dragged across the courtyard by ICE agents, according to an interview on CBS LA and video from the scene.

For the family the ordeal has taken a toll, Tyler says.

sonal care manager who helps coordinate appointments, medications, and follow-up care. Community Supports offer services such as asthma home visits, medically tailored meals, and assistance transitioning from homelessness.These programs are designed to keep you healthy and supported—body, mind, and home. Ask your health plan to find out if you qualify.

Important Changes Coming in 2026

For most Medi-Cal members, nothing will change in 2026. However, starting in January 2026, undocumented adults and certain adult immigrants will no longer be able to newly apply for full-scope Medi-Cal based on immigration status. Beginning in July 2026, undocumented adults and some adults with certain immigration statuses will lose their dental benefits, people affected by those changes can continue to use their benefits until July. Emergency services and pregnancy-related care will remain available, regardless of immigration status. Youth under age 19 and pregnant people (and up to 12 months after their pregnancy ends) remain eligible for

Will Get Worse Before They Get Better ...

sity, equity and inclusion efforts as anti-American.

Dr. King was a man of God. But Trump’s recent statements put himself above God.

What could stop Trump from acting on any idea that comes to his head?

Trump’s answer to the NY Times? “My own morality.”

It almost makes his implicit desire to be king seem practically humble.

But he’s our president. How could we have made that mistake? How can we be silent now?

NOTE: I’m off to New York to be in another staging of Oak-

By Bo Tefu California Black Media

California health officials have confirmed the spread of a mutated influenza strain known as the “super flu,” as flu-related hospitalizations across the state reach their highest level of the season.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) said Jan.15 that the strain, a mutated form of seasonal influenza A known as H3N2 subclade K, is present in the state. The announcement comes as the department confirmed a second pediatric death linked to the flu since the start of the current respiratory virus season.

State data show flu activity has eased slightly from a late-December peak. As of Jan. 3, about

full-scope Medi-Cal, including dental. Current Medi-Cal members will keep their coverage as long as they continue to meet eligibility requirements, including income and California residency. More information is available at www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/changes.aspx. How to Get Care — Today If you already have Medi-Cal, call your health plan to schedule a checkup or ask about dental, vision, or specialist care. For a full list of plans, visit the Medi-Cal Health Plan Directory at dhcs.ca.gov. If you are unsure which plan you have, call 1-800-5415555. If you do not have Medi-Cal, you can apply at BenefitsCal.com or contact the Alameda County Medi-Cal office at (510) 795-2428 or the San Francisco Medi-Cal office at (855) 355-5757. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you have Medi-Cal, now is a good time to use the benefits you already have. Schedule a checkup, dental cleaning, or eye exam, and contact your Medi-Cal health plan or the Medi-Cal Member Help Line at 1-800-541-5555 if you need help getting started.

land writer Ishmael Reed’s “The Amanuensis.

If you’re in New York, see it starting Thursday. Where: Eric Firestone Gallery, 40 Great Jones Street, NYC 10012

When: Jan. 22 - Jan. 24, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Also see my one man play on my cure for Trump Derangement Syndrome, “69, Emil Amok: A Real Journalist Stands Up” http://playgroundsf.vbotickets.com/event/solo_fest_69_ emil_amok_a_real_journalist_ stands_up/177513

It’s at the Potrero Stage in SF. It’s free, and you can see it in person or stream it live.

Thanks for your support!

15% of flu tests statewide were positive, down from 17% recorded through Dec. 27. Despite the modest decline, hospitalizations have continued to rise.

Flu-related hospital admissions reached a season high of approximately 3.8 per 100,000 people statewide as of Jan. 3, according to CDPH figures.

Public health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, even when circulating strains differ from those targeted by the vaccine.

“Current seasonal flu vaccines remain effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalization, including the currently circulating viruses,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH director and state public health officer, said in a statement. Pan added that “it is important for families to know that flu vaccines, tests, and treatments remain widely available for all Californians and that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine.”

Health officials urge residents to seek medical care if flu symptoms worsen and to take preventive measures as flu season continues across California.

Legacy Lost ...

Continued from page 1

marker of presence, ownership, and continuity — a tangible link to what was lost.

Recently, the tree was silently cut down by a private property owner. While legal, its removal was not neutral. It represented another loss layered onto earlier displacement, demonstrating how decisions about land, memory, and history continue to be made without engagement with the people most affected.

Community-planted trees carry deep significance. They are witnesses to the presence of Black families and neighborhoods historically marginalized or erased. As the Black Heritage Tree Project notes, these trees are intentionally preserved or planted in places shaped by Black life to tell stories of resistance, survival, and continuity (Black Heritage Tree Project). Unlike lynching trees, which often remained because they reinforced systems of power and silence, community legacy trees are removed when they interrupt redevelopment, expose unresolved displacement, or assert claims to place. These trees embody both harm and potential healing.

The City of Hayward recognized some of this harm in November 2021, issuing a formal apology to former Russell City

residents for the inequitable treatment and displacement. The U.N. defines reparations as a comprehensive set of measures to address serious harm caused by state action or inaction.

These include:

1. Restitution – restoring victims to the position they were in before harm occurred.

2. Compensation – addressing economically assessable damages such as lost property, income, or wealth.

3. Rehabilitation – providing support for long-term harm, including social services, housing, or community rebuilding.

4. Satisfaction – acknowledgment of wrongdoing, memorialization, truth-telling, and public recognition.

5. Guarantees of Non-Repetition – institutional reforms to prevent recurrence of harm.

Measured against these principles, Russell City illustrates unresolved gaps.

Russell City no longer appears on most maps. What remains is a choice: whether history will be acknowledged, whether harm will be addressed, and whether the work of repair will include preserving evidence of what once was.

That choice is being made now.

Bay Area Holds Multifaith Solidarity to Fast, Pray and Protest Against ICE Terror

By Ken Epstein

Members of faith communities in the Bay Area held a solidarity vigil to pray and fast on the steps of San Francisco City Hall Thursday to resist the terror and violence inflicted on neighbors, friends, and families at the hands of ICE and other federal agents and send prayers to a Bay Area faith delegation traveling to Minneapolis.

The solidarity fast was organized by the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity, in partnership with members of Lakeshore Ave. Baptist Church, Kehila Community Synagogue, Mt. Diablo UU Church, and other faith and community leaders.

“May our fast say YES to community, love and care, and NO to militarism and violence,” according to a written statement released by the protesters. “May our fast be in solidarity with all those who are suffering from state violence by ICE and federal agents, detention centers and family separations. May our fast lift up the local demands and calls to action.”

The fast was scheduled to be conducted for about one day, from noon on Jan. 22 to noon on Jan. 23.

“Many of our colleagues are in Minneapolis today, and those of us that couldn’t go are taking part in actions that are happening all over the United States,” said Presbyterian Minister Bruce Reyes Chow, who is also a board member of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity.

“One of our goals is to be in solidarity with the marches that are happening across the country, but primarily the clergy march that is happening in Minneapolis,” he said.

Meanwhile, a letter was delivered to Congress Thursday signed by more than 2,000 clergy members nationally, demanding an investigation into ICE agent Jonathan Ross’s killing of Renée Nicole Good in Minneapolis, calling for federal agents to be removed from that city, and urging “moral accountability” and “urgent action” to address “ongoing abuse of power at the hands of ICE,” according to a statement from the national organization Faith in Action.

“We’re here today as clergy across the country to hand-deliver a letter from our siblings in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and to stand in solidarity with them to tell Speaker Johnson that the blood of Renée Good is on his hands,” said Pastor Delonte Gholston, who leads Peace Fellowship Church in Washington, D.C., in a video posted on social media in front of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson’s office.

“And that the blood of the ground is crying out, as it did in our sacred scriptures, crying out for justice. And crying out to end state-sponsored terror,” he continued, surrounded by other faith leaders.

Three Alarm Fire ...

Continued from page 1

DOPE ERA Retail store at 19th and Broadway in downtown Oakland suffered extensive water damage as firefighters put out a fire in the five-story building with 48 residential units. The entire building was red tagged, displacing over 200 residents and families, and three small businesses. Photo by Carla Thomas.

and water damage.

All 48 residential units were evacuated, leaving residents without homes, belongings, or clear answers about their future. Among the affected businesses was DOPE ERA, a local retail store owned by community advocate and entrepreneur Mistah F.A.B., which sustained significant water damage.

“A building and merchandise can be replaced,” he said. “I’m just thankful no lives were lost.”

His brother and staff spent the afternoon clearing debris and assessing losses alongside Fife.

Both Fife and Mistah F.A.B. spoke about the fire’s devastating impact on Oakland’s already strained supply of affordable housing.

“My heart is deeply saddened by this tragedy because I know the people living here were living here because it was affordable,” Fife said.

“We’re working diligently with the Housing Department, the City Administrator, MACRO (Mobile Assistance Community Responders of Oakland), and the Red Cross to make sure everyone affected has the support they need. Oakland is coming together to house these individuals and families.”

“This isn’t the kind of situation you ever want to wake up to,” Mistah F.A.B. added, “but I want to offer my full support to those who’ve lost their homes.”

Into the early evening, fire crews continued inspecting the charred interior for hazards, while Red Cross volunteers, city staff, and community members distributed water, blankets, and other resources. Onlookers gathered quietly at all four corners of the intersection, watching as recovery efforts continued.

‘Along with OUSD, I Celebrate Civil Rights Icon Martin Luther King Jr.,’ Says Supt. Denise Saddler

‘Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle,’ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

By Dr. Saddler, OUSD Superintendent

Every January, I look forward to honoring one of the most important figures in American history, someone whose impact changed my life.

I was a child here in Oakland and remember learning about the history that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was making as it happened.

Of course, my family was watching his fight for civil rights in real time, always hoping for the best. I was 14 years old when Dr. King was taken from us, and I remember that loss like it was yesterday. Fortunately for all of us, he had already helped create so much change that all of us were the better for it.

It’s because of the rights that so many of us now have that we celebrate Dr. King every year, nearly 60 years after his death. It’s also one of the reasons we are so pleased to have Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary as one of our longtime schools.

Last September, it was truly my honor to be at the site when Dr. King’s son, Martin Luther King III and his wife, Arndrea, visited as part of a big event with Stephen and Ayesha Curry and their Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation.

Mr. King literally left his mark on the school building during a day of painting and playground preparation before he and his wife posed for photos with the Currys next to a

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ership. These officers will serve our communities with integrity, understanding, and pride. Oakland is stronger because of them.”

mural of his father.

Of course, now is an uncertain time with many concerning things happening in our country and internationally. Recently, there has been a clear surge of conflict, racism, sexism, and all forms of hatred.

And now is a time as much as any to remember that Dr. King was absolutely right, that we must continue to struggle to effect important and durable change.

We have to remember that we must always be there for each other – as students, as staff, and as the Oakland community. We cannot fall into the trap of thinking only of ourselves. We must care for our family, our friends, our neighbors, and the people in our community who are farthest from opportunity. I want to remind everyone why education is so important, and what makes it the great equalizer. If students are dedicated to learning, take advantage of all the opportunities and learn to problemsolve, they will be well prepared for post-secondary education and the world of work, and they’ll be better prepared to make an impact in our community, our city, and our world.

On this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, our community comes together every year to do community service in honor of Dr. King. I invite you and your families to take action in support of Dr. King’s legacy through hands-on service.

The 195th Academy Class includes one woman and 13 men. Officer Lael Beltran is the class valedictorian. The additional newly sworn officers are Chan Saechao, Adriana Talavera, Kevon Reed, Alejandro Cuevas, Anthony Caraveo, Miguel Gonzalez, Gary Moran, Anthony Nguyen, Henry Stern, Jarrett Mitchell, Nasser Aaid, Jerrel Green, and Jawan Davis. These graduates bring the department’s sworn officers to a total of 618.

“Service before self is a call of honor and duty. Today, we recognize and thank a new class of trainees stepping up to the highest call of service and committing themselves to the safety of the Oakland community,” City Administrator Jestin Johnson said. “Public safety is the highest responsibility of local government, and we are also grateful to our mayor and City Council for investing in these police academies in the City budget last summer as we worked to address major shortfalls. Our elected leaders’ ongoing commitment to public safety is echoed by the City Administrator’s Office and every City employee.”

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Lied To You” – proving once again that Oakland’s creative excellence spans every corner of the arts.

From “Fruitvale Station” to “Black Panther” and now “Sinners,” Ryan has consistently demonstrated that Oakland storytellers can create films that resonate globally while never forgetting where they come from. This recordbreaking moment represents the kind of excellence and innovation that defines Oakland — bold, un-

apologetic, and transformative.

Congratulations to Ryan Coogler, Delroy Lindo, Raphael Saadiq, Michael B. Jordan, and the entire “Sinners” team. Your success continues to inspire the next generation of Oakland artists and filmmakers who are already creating the stories that will shape our future.

We see you. We celebrate you. And Oakland is riding with you.”

— Mayor Barbara Lee

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ter way to celebrate our MLK, Jr. holiday than with a day preparing produce for people in need and letting people know we care.”

Oakland-based photographer Graig Brooks of the Iota Alpha Sigma Chapter, sporting his fraternity jacket, shot photos of the event between food-bagging duties.

“Community service brings us together as an organization to do good in our own neighborhoods. It’s important to serve others, and that’s a tenet that my brothers and sisters of Zeta Phi Beta and brothers of Phi Beta Sigma stand by,” he said.

Before the food preparation tasks, volunteers were provided breakfast and heard from ACCFB

Executive Director and CEO Regi Young. Young’s passion for serving was contagious as he emphasized the organization’s shift from food charity to food justice.

“Food is a basic human right,” he said. “And food insecurity is a solvable problem.

“We live in the wealthiest country, in one of the wealthiest states and regions; food insecurity should not exist here,” he said.

Young mentioned that the need in Alameda County is great, and

he and his team have the opportunity to work with a network of more than 370 partners.

“There’s enough food in this country to feed everyone, but not everyone has the support to access all of those resources,” he explains. “The organization relies on strong community support, as people, families, children, and seniors depend on our resources.”

Young emphasized the importance of a justice framework that must instill hope in the midst of chaos.

He also reflected on the historical significance of the Black Panthers, who initiated food programs to combat hunger.

“How do we utilize their legacy?” he asks. Hunger impacts many other systems, including health, education, and housing. Young stresses that without a hunger-free community, achieving other vital goals becomes impossible.

“Again, hunger should not exist here. In the East Bay, we take care of our own. We’re all better together, and we’re so grateful to our many partners and volunteers. This work is about people, not just food.”

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Around 100 supporters attended the event, where a mix of grief and determination helped to define the mood of the room. Volunteers served popcorn and snacks, and a separate play area was set up for children.

Family members embraced and wept quietly as Lovett addressed the crowd, calling for continued support in her search for the truth.

Cephus “Uncle Bobby” Johnson, co-founder of the Oscar Grant Foundation, attended with his wife, Beatrice “Auntie B” Johnson, and delivered a message of solidarity.

“Terry is a strong woman,” Johnson said. “Imagine all the birthday parties she gave her son when he was alive, and now she’s celebrating his birthday even though he’s no longer here. Terry and her family deserve justice, and we support her.”

Producer Chay said she and her colleague Joshua completed the documentary in two weeks after interviewing Lovett and reviewing evidence.

“Jalani’s case is part of a pattern of police misconduct throughout California and the United States,” she said. “Projects like this help organize communities and expose the disproportionate incarceration of Black and Brown people, especially in the working class.”

Chay, also a member of No-DutDol, a coalition of diasporic Koreans advocating for a unified Korea free from imperial influence, said the project aligned with her broader commitment to confronting systemic injustice.

For more information or to support Terry Lovett’s campaign for an independent autopsy, visit bit.ly/