Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival

In honor of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X), the East Side Arts Alliance (ESAA) held the eighth Annual Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival Saturday May 17 at San Antonio Park in East Oakland. Fusing music, arts and crafts, and dance there was something for all.



Oakland Nation of Islam Minister Keith Muhammad, journalist Davey D, and POCC Chairman Fred Hampton, Jr.


BCC BSU Advisor Karen Senefru and BSU President Sunnye B.

There were three stages for performers. On the main stage, Howard Wiley & the Freedom Now! Band, The John Santos Quintet, The Ambrose Akinmusire Project with Goapele, Muziki Roberson Quintet with Dwight Trible and Soul Nubian performed. Nearby on the second stage on top of a large flatbed truck, the organic sounds of Hairdoo could be heard.

Laney BSU Treasurer Ariana Mitchell

Blu Pride of Club Knowledge

For the youth and young at heart, "The Courts" transformed the park's tennis courts into a family fairground. The upper court showcased live graffitti murals from artists from the Bay to LA. The second level showcased local HipHop artists Nu Dekades, Lady Blue and Queen Deelah, Ray Ridah from DIRTY MACKIN', and the Trunk Boiz. DJ Treat U Nice, DJ Wazir, DJ Fuze kept the music pumping on the wheels of steel. Infamous Oakland turf dancers like the "Fresh Kids" were "doing it moving" on the floor.

The food court on the lower level featured soul food and a plantains, jerk chicken, and a "Taste of Africa."


Saleem Shakir of Leadership Excellence, Black Caucus of CalSACC Treasurer Charles Perkins, and Defender Editor Brother Reggie

Nu Dekades: K.E.V., Ryan Nicole, and Midhnight Sunshine.

ESAA is a collective of artists and activist of color who live in the San Antonio neighborhood. The festival is one of the last free festivals in Oakiand where people, young and old, can have a good time.


African American Studies Professor Nehanda Imara



BSU Historian Lamar Caldwell and Minister of Culture President L. Davis.

8th Annual Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival May 17 at San Antonio Park in East
Oakland. For more info, visit East Side Arts Alliance



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