Grantmakers in the Arts welcomes you to Oakland, home to vibrant creatives, diverse communities, and a heritage of activism. While being a deeply rooted city, with the oak tree as a metaphor of its culture and legacy, “Oaktown” is experiencing a significant transformation at the intersection of race, space, and place. Amidst conversations of gentrification, rising costs of rent, and concerns about displacement of longstanding neighborhoods, the city’s culture stands central. At this rich time, Oakland – home to artists, immigrants, and newcomers for generations – explores its histories of resistance and empowerment with a future that celebrates roots, creativity, the power of stories, and the essential desire for belonging. Engage with your colleagues at the GIA Conference to be inspired by the people and culture of Oakland.