The 11th annual Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival was held on May 21 in Oakland’s San Antonio park at 16th Ave and Foothill Blvd. Two stages hosted jazz and hip-hop artists and political speakers, who rallied the crowd around issues like police brutality and self-determination and lectured on Oakland’s rich history. A food court served up local barbecue from Uncle Willie’s and Cameroonian plates, tempting festival attendees with “a taste of Africa.” Vendors lined the expansive lawn, selling art, t-shirts, jewelry and musical instruments to a diverse crowd of all ages and races. There was plenty to see and do, but most were content to bask on the grass, soaking in some sun and saxophone.
