If California’s prisons are a reflection of how well we run our government and treat our people, we are in a heap of trouble. Earlier this summer, the United States Supreme Court ordered California to reduce its grossly overcrowded prisons by more than 30,000 people. Recent documents filed… Read more
If you were wondering where I was last week, I was busy getting re-inspired, re-engaged, and re-energized at Netroots Nation 2011. There were special moments throughout the conference. None more special than the speech of Ella Baker Center founder, Van Jones.
Van has inspired many of us at… Read more
Not to far from the new digs of the Ella Baker Center is easily one of the biggest and dopest murals in Oakland. The mural is a product of the Estria Foundation whose project aims to create ten collaborative murals in ten different cities… Read more
Warren G and his homemade ride were one of hundreds who celebrated Bike to Work Day at the Bike Away from Work Party hosted by allies Walk Oakland Bike Oakland and the East Bay Bicycle Coalition. As a regular bike commuter who honors Bike to Work Day five days a… Read more
The Congo.
Growing up, I remember being mystified every-time I thought about or said “the Congo”. It seemed enchanting, mysterious, and intriguing. To this day, it remains that place for me. It’s a shame that lack of coverage at this moment in the Congo’s political history means that… Read more
Have you ever stared a goal down and said to yourself “I can’t” or “I won’t”? How many times have you labeled a task as too daunting, too difficult, or just too much? Honestly, we all have done it at one time or another.
When I feel defeated, I… Read more
Today is the first day of spring. When people started standing up for their rights against the anti-union actions of Republican Governor Scott Walker, it was still very much winter. It’s been 5 weeks since Gov. Walker proposed eliminating the collective bargaining rights of state workers and 14 Wisconsin legislators… Read more
Marian Anderson (1902-1993) is remembered as one of the best American singers of all time. Today, marks the anniversary of her performance as the first African-American to sing with the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She was also the first African American singer to perform at the White House. To… Read more
As the year draws to a close, the Ella’s Voice Team decided to look at some of the important stories, highlight some awesome Orgs, and throw some shine on the individuals that helped to shape Oakland in 2010. Here are numbers 6-10 (NOT listed in order of importance or inspiration).… Read more
Peter Mui’s Fixit Clinic, is an incredible place where the team helps you make your appliances work, so you don’t have go buy a new one of whatever’s broken. You also learn valuable DIY skills. I had the opportunity to talk with Peter about his mission and vision.
