OMCA Celebrates Art And Activism Night
An evening of inspiration with W. Kamau Bell, filmmakers, artists, and community icons under stars.
Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.
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OMCA’s Party of the Year is set to light up the OMCA Garden in Oakland on Saturday, May 31. With limited tickets remaining, this event is a unique blend of powerful dialogue and festive celebration—a perfect remedy to the everyday, infusing art with activism.
Event Details
The evening kicks off with a robust conversation led by renowned comedian and social commentator W. Kamau Bell. Known for his incisive views on race, politics, and culture, Bell is no stranger to using humor and insight to address big issues. He will be joined by filmmaker Adrian Burrell, Black Cultural Zone CEO Carolyn Johnson, and NYT bestselling author Leila Mottley. Together, this diverse panel will explore how art can stand up to power—a theme that resonates deeply with the community and reflects the event’s underlying mission.
Set against the backdrop of the charming OMCA Garden, every detail of this fundraiser has been designed to inspire. Guests will not only be treated to thought-provoking discussions but will also enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and dancing under the stars. The outdoor setting promises an intimate yet vibrant ambiance, where the natural beauty of the garden complements the spirited conversation taking place on stage.
In Conversation With Community Advocates
The discussion, a highlight of the night, aims to bridge the gap between art and activism. W. Kamau Bell, whose career has been marked by his fearless exploration of social issues, leads the conversation with passion and candor. His extensive background in comedy and social commentary has allowed him to address sensitive topics with both humor and gravitas. The panel’s dialogue is expected to touch on the role of art in challenging dominant power structures and inspiring community action. Filmmaker Adrian Burrell brings his expertise in capturing untold human stories, while Carolyn Johnson leverages her leadership at Black Cultural Zone to provide insights into cultural empowerment. NYT bestselling author Leila Mottley rounds out the panel with narratives that resonate on an emotional level, demonstrating how storytelling can be a catalyst for change.
Celebrating Art And Activism Tonight
After the enlightening conversation, the night transforms into a celebration of creativity and community. The event is not solely a fundraiser—it is a jubilant gathering meant to honor both the arts and the people who champion them. With a menu featuring gourmet food and innovative cocktails, guests will have ample opportunities to mingle, dance, and enjoy the live entertainment that brings the theme of the evening full circle.
Ticket prices are set on a sliding scale from $75 to $1,000 to encourage inclusivity. Every ticket sold contributes directly to OMCA’s educational programs that serve thousands of students annually. This model of community support reinforces the event’s goal: to foster a space where art and activism can spark meaningful change while celebrating the power of community engagement.
The event also echoes the ethos encapsulated in W. Kamau Bell’s past public discussions, where he has passionately supported independent media and the arts. His social media posts have often highlighted the importance of creative expression as a tool for societal engagement. At this event, Bell returns to his roots of merging insightful commentary with humor, setting the stage for an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and immensely enjoyable.
OMCA’s Party of the Year is more than an event—it is a movement. It encapsulates the significance of community, the power of art, and the drive toward activism. The juxtaposition of a high-level dialogue with a festive celebration exemplifies modern cultural events that balance intellect with entertainment. As one enthusiastic community member remarked, “This isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s an invitation to join a community of passionate supporters of the arts. Every ticket moves us closer to a future where education and creativity thrive together.”
Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets soon, as availability is limited. With the celebration set against a starry sky and infused with inspiring conversation, this event promises to be one of Oakland’s cultural highlights. It stands as a testament to the idea that art is not only a form of expression but also a powerful means of challenging the status quo and uniting communities under a common cause.
This transformative evening is poised to leave a lasting impact, reinforcing that when art meets activism, communities are empowered to celebrate change, creativity, and collective purpose.
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