A Conversation with Hodari Davis About Anti Blackness in Oakland

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

Last Thursday, over 400 individuals gathered at the Oakland Museum of California’s James Moore Theater for an enlightening event that highlighted the issue of anti-Blackness in Oakland. Hosted by Hard Knock Radio’s Davey D, the evening featured a profound conversation with Hodari Davis, a renowned educator and co-founder of Edutainment for Equity. Alongside his wife, Candice Wicks Davis, they sparked a crucial dialogue that drew attention to the disparities faced by Black communities in Oakland.

The event kicked off with a presentation of slides that starkly outlined the challenges faced by Black residents in Oakland, from homelessness and incarceration rates to educational attainment. These slides set the stage for a deep dive into the systemic racism that underpins these issues, guided by the insightful discussion between Davey D and Hodari Davis. The pair explored the historical context of these disparities, touching on pivotal moments and movements such as the Kerner Commission Report, the founding of the Black Panther Party, and the destructive impact of the FBI’s COINTELPRO on Black freedom movements.

Moreover, the conversation extended beyond the past to address the current state of Black communities in Oakland, highlighting their resilience and ongoing efforts to overcome adversity. One of the key points raised was Oakland’s significance as a beacon of resilience, despite external pressures and narratives that seek to undermine the capability of Black communities to self-govern and pursue progressive politics.

Following the discussion, the floor was opened to audience members, who continued the conversation with Candice Wicks Davis, further enriching the evening’s dialogue. We were also treated to live performances from Candice who is set to drop a new album that specifically focuses on the topics discussed

This event, emblematic of Oakland’s vibrant community and its commitment to addressing and overcoming racial inequalities, underscores the importance of such discussions in fostering understanding, solidarity, and action towards a more equitable society.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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