“For me, it is fundamental for AHC to remain in Oakland and continue the vision of my parents. Given the destructive history of urban redevelopment through the practices of redlining, marginalization and oppression, the work to repair the harm that has been done needs to be an essential priority in rebuilding our communities. Building the Center for ArtEsteem creates a bright path like the Sankofa bird Adinkra symbol that cleanses our past as we build a benevolent future.”
– Amana Harris, Executive Director of Center for ArtEsteem
The Center for ArtEsteem, a division of AHC Oakland, is a Black-led, community-based nonprofit that empowers individuals to be self-aware and inspired through art, creativity and education. They help equip people to make positive choices to break the cycle of violence for themselves and their communities.
Since 1989, the organization has provided integrated arts education, racial healing circles, leadership training, public art installation and workforce development in Oakland and the larger Bay Area. They have served dozens of at-risk schools and surrounding communities, reaching thousands of children, youth and families.
To ensure their ongoing presence in support of the local community, the nonprofit is in the process of acquiring and transforming 5,000 square feet of land and property in West Oakland. Their plan is to build a new Center for ArtEsteem, a community asset that will include new studio, exhibition and community event spaces.
Community Vision is honored to have partnered with The Center for ArtEsteem to provide real estate and financial management consults for this project as well as a $150,000 loan through our Bay Area Racial Equity Fund (BayREF) program.
