Late in 2009, I had a ‘personal is political’ break-through. Even though I was aware of the economic and political realities of my city—West Oakland is almost a food desert and more than one in five adults in the city aged 18 to 64 go without health insurance. I was stuck by how my own mothers failing health was linked to her diet and weight. And all indications were that I was down the same path. Not long after I heard that Oakland was going to host it’s first Running Festival since I was a child. I resolved to start running. I realized that it was time for me to get serious about my health, not only so I could continue to fight for the health of my community, but so I could be here for my family.
I am a proud to be from Oakland. I love living in one of most diverse city in America. Oakland is home to people and great ideas. We have a rich history, from our Chinatown –one of the nations oldest– to the Brotherhood of the sleeping Car Porters–the first Black union to join the American Federation of Labor. Our optimism in what’s possible has allowed us to be leaders in everything from green technology and entrepreneurship, to the arts and culture. My renewed commitment to my own own health and my enduring pride for Oakland led me to sign up as a runner on Team Ella Baker Center for the Oakland Running Festival.
This spring, Oakland will be doing something she hasn’t done in more than 25 years, host a marathon, the Oakland Running Festival. This landmark event will be more than just a marathon; it will be an opportunity for this extraordinary city to showcase all the good things about it. From it’s deep history to the diversity of it’s residents; the true spirit of Oakland is of resilience, determination, and optimism in the face of come what may. A year ago, if you had told me that I would be participating in a running festival, I probably would have laughed out loud. Now however, I see it as not only a to keep my resolution of improving my own health, but also a way to honor the history and future of Oakland.
Together, we’ll show what a healthy and vibrant Oakland can do — and continue to demonstrate what’s possible when a community comes together to make real change for real people. Believe me, runners of ALL skill levels are welcome. Even if you can’t sign up for a race, there are volunteer opportunities as well as the chance to support Team EBC with a donation.
I likely will not win the race, nor will I transform the health of our city or myself over night. But every step counts. Together we will win the race to transform Oakland and inspire the world.
One Comment
I have run every major marathon in California, but I think Oakland will be the most special–for many of the reasons you state. This is a race about community, about celebrating the important things that make us human. I don’t live in Oakland, but I love and appreciate it–and I depend on the great City. It is the epicenter of the Bay Area, the foundation that enables the East Bay, North Bay, Peninsula and SF to prosper.
I am proud to join you for the run, and make a donation to the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights. Thank you for the important work you do for the Community, and…see you at the finish line.