I teach in deep East Oakland. My kids are experts in how power works

Students in deep East Oakland endure substantial hardships, including fears of deportation and local violence, according to educator Jesse MacKinnon. In Sobrante Park, a neighborhood often overlooked by the rest of the city, young people develop a keen understanding of power dynamics and survival. Many live in crowded conditions, facing sudden evictions and the constant threat of violence in their neighborhoods. Residents band together for mutual support, as the community lacks adequate resources and safety nets. MacKinnon emphasizes that despite these challenges, students show up to school, bringing their stories of resilience.

They articulate their fears and aspirations with a clarity that challenges local officials to address systemic issues. The students' experiences underscore the urgent need for policy changes to support vulnerable communities. This narrative serves as a call to action for local authorities to recognize and respond to these unmet needs.