Oakland has a long and rich history of revolutionary community building, timeless culture, and radical change makers. With a multitude of neighborhoods, cultural hotspots, and the endless opportunities for connecting with the community, to truly know Oakland is to love Oakland.
Matthew Nicholson is an Oakland Unified School District incoming ninth Grader. Born in San Francisco, he’s spent most of his life as an Oakland resident. I asked Matthew about his self-proclaimed love for Oakland and his neighborhood.
What neighborhood do you spend the most time in and why?
West Oakland, because I live here and it is nice.
Do you feel a sense of community in your neighborhood?
Yes I feel a large sense of community. I am familiar with my neighbors and my neighborhood. I have been living here for a long time and I feel at home.
What is something you can only experience in Oakland?
The food. Oakland is very culturally diverse which allows for me to experience different types of food and different cultures through food. Some of my favorite spots are Los Cantaros Taqueria on San Pablo, Fat Lady in Jack London and Understory, a cooperative restaurant in downtown Oakland.
Why would you want to continue to build a life in Oakland?
I mean I can build a life anywhere but Oakland is an amazing city. I feel warmth and togetherness in Oakland. I am from here, I grew up here and that’s important to me.
What would you say to someone who thinks Oakland is too dangerous?
I would say that’s cap. Every city is dangerous in its own way. People only see the dangerous side of Oakland on the news, when you come to Oakland that’s not how it really is. I think the city council and the mayor could do more to make Oakland safer for residents and students, but I think there is something bigger at play here and the reputation of Oakland is just a means to an end.
What do you want to thank Oakland for?
For making me who I am.
Disclosure: Matthew Nicholson is a West Oakland resident, and my son.
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