510 Day is celebrating 10 years of resistance
On May 10, Oakland will host the 10th anniversary of 510 Day, themed “Celebrating 10 years of resistance” against gentrification. Lifelong residents Leon Sykes, Jordan Warren, and Needa Bee founded the event to promote local culture while raising awareness about social issues. This year, tributes will honor the late D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné!
and community activist Kenzie Smith. Needa Bee emphasized that 510 Day represents the community's fight against the detrimental effects of gentrification, particularly on Black and Brown residents. The celebration will feature music, local vendors, and discussions on pressing social justice topics. Initially launched amid the tech boom's gentrification challenges, 510 Day has evolved into a significant platform for advocating community protection. Nicole Lee from Urban Peace Movement joined the event in 2018 to enhance its social impact.
“There is no Town without the fabric of the people who make it,” Sykes remarked, underscoring the importance of local identity.