Join us for our official celebration to say “Thank You” to amazing Bay Area Artists, Art Supporters and Advocates who are on the front lines of the independent art and green movement. These pioneers have done exceptional work to empower others through art and advocacy. Let's show our love and appreciation for their hard work and passion for the arts and community. 

2011 Awardees:

London Breed

London Breed was appointed Executive Director of the African American Art & Culture Complex (AAACC) in August 2002 by former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, Jr. Under her leadership, the AAACC has become one of the most renowned and progressive institutions of African-centered cultural expression in the San Francisco Bay Area. The AAACC has over 34,000 square feet of community arts space. London is a native San Franciscan and a proud graduate of Galileo High School in San Francisco. She received her B.A. in Political Science from the University of California at Davis and is currently pursuing her Masters in Public Administration at the University of San Francisco.

Kevin Epps

Kevin Epps is a community activist and award-winning filmmaker. He honed his skills by working on public access shows, and taking classes at the Film Arts Foundation. In 2002,  his documentary, “Straight Outta Hunter’s Point”, won local and national acclaim and launched him into the spotlight for his independent filmwork. In 2006, he premiered "Rap Dreams", a documentary chronicle of the big-time dreams of underground Bay Area rappers. His latest hit, "The Black Rock aka Black Alcatraz" (2009), captured the untold story of the black prisoners at Alcatraz Prison, which premiered at the world famous Alcatraz to a packed house. His other most recent work ranges from gun violence, in the 2008 piece titled "Popped In Oakland" won the Telly Award, and can be seen nationwide on Current TV.  

Green Streets

Ross Mirkarimi

Ross Mirkarimi was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors 2004, reelected in 2008 and represents District 5 encompassing the neighborhoods of the Western Addition, Japantown, Haight-Ashbury and Inner Sunset. In 2009, he was appointed by the California State Senate to the California Coastal Commission, one of the most powerful land-use bodies in the United States.

Supervisor Mirkarimi has authored more than 80 ordinances that have had both citywide and national impact. Apart from his reputation for sponsoring cutting-edge laws, he is also well known for his 24/7 focus on issues that chronically challenge his district and the City. Community organizing and activism have always been a significant part of Ross's life: as student body president of St. Louis University, president of the Missouri Public Interest Research Group (MOPIRG), and co-founder of the California Green Party.

thePeople

THE PEOPLE was started November 2007 by music lovers who felt the East Bay was being overlooked by Bay Area taste makers. Oakland, with its history as a community of immigrants, transplants, revolutionaries, leftists, artists, and people of color, is an obvious place to create a gathering focused on creative community building through art and culture.

THE PEOPLE aims to redefine nightlife in the East Bay by cultivating music, art, dance, fashion, cuisine, and community to create a soulful and eclectic experience. You can expect to hear gems from across the musical spectrum - progressive dance-hop to Afrobeat flavored house - the only limit imposed on the music is that it must move the body, mind, soul, or all three. Guest Chefs nourish THE PEOPLE with meaningful cuisines including locally and organically sourced food and foods that reflect the diverse cultural heritages of the community. Artisan vendors display and sell work including painting, jewelery, and clothing.

THE PEOPLE takes place monthly, every 4th Saturday at The New Parish in downtown Oakland.

Reception: 7p-7:45p. Cocktails by Pisco Porton 

Beverages by Hansen's Natural

Delicious bites by Chef Sharon Lee.

Live Music by the Valerie Troutt JazzSoul Band!

Awards Program: 8p-9:30p. Live Music. Entertainment. Awards Presentation and more!

Hosted by Days with Zahrah Show Host, Zahrah Farmer

Special Presentation by Brandon Hughes, Poet and Prose Writer- Brandon Hughes

Live Music Set by Valerie Troutt SoulJazz Band

After Party: 9:45p- until. Details coming soon!

***Portion of the Proceeds go to the Literacy Through the Arts- Docent Program. This is a new youth empowerment program hosted by the Visual Arts Department at the African American Art & Culture Complex. Youth will learn leadership and literacy skills through workshops and docent training where youth will host tours and guided talks for the exhibitions at the African American Art & Culture Complex.***