West Oakland Mural Project

Nestled in the heart of California, a journey through the dynamic streets of West Oakland brings you to a unique and inspiring spectacle. At 831 Center Street stands the West Oakland Mural House – a vibrant canvas that boldly celebrates the women of the Black Panther Party. This tribute is not merely a collection of paints on a wall; it is a colorful saga of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

The Art and the Artist

The mural, an artistic masterpiece, was painted by Rachel Wolfe-Goldsmith, an integral member of the Wolfe Pack. Wolfe-Goldsmith drew her inspiration from the captivating photography of Stephen Shames, whose images have been crucial in documenting the history of the Black Panther Party.

The mural was initiated in June 2020, during what many historians consider the largest global social justice rebellion in history. Amidst the social unrest and calls for justice, the mural emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration, fostering a sense of unity and community. It is a heartfelt tribute to the Black women who, driven by love and a vision for a better future, committed their lives to the fight for freedom and tirelessly served their community.

A Community Centerpiece

The mural’s power and impact extend far beyond its visual appeal. It has moved people of all colors, ethnicities, genders, and ages to tears. Many find solace in taking photos and videos, conversing with the homeowner and neighbors, and quietly reading the names of the women honored on the mural. It has quickly become a community centerpiece, a gathering place for remembrance and forward-looking conversations, and a testament to these women’s enduring legacy.

A Home Transformed

The overwhelming positive community response led the homeowner, Jilchristina Vest, to repurpose the house’s first floor into a museum honoring the Black Panther Party’s legacy. The museum showcases over 65 Community Survival Programs initiated by the Party. These programs include the Free Breakfast Program for Children, Free Medical and Dental Clinics, and Free Food Programs, many of which focus on supporting children and elders.

Women of the Black Panther Party

The Black Panther Party, founded in Oakland, CA, in 1966, quickly spread throughout the United States. The Party established chapters in more than 30 cities, many of which were started and led by women. Figures like Christina “Chuckles” May and Yvonne King in Chicago, and international team leaders such as Kathleen Cleaver, Barbara E. Cox, Connie Matthews, Charlotte O’Neal, and Janet Underwood, were instrumental in the Party’s growth and impact. By the early 1970s, women comprised nearly 70% of the Black Panther Party’s members.

These women, with an average age of just 19, undertook various roles within the party and the community. They served as community organizers, Central Committee leaders, Survival Program administrators, BPP Newspaper writers, artists, editors, nurses, researchers, markswomen, community board members, teachers, mothers, and grandmothers. They were the coalition-builders, working with the people, serving the community, and inspiring future generations.

A Testament to Legacy

The West Oakland Mural House is an essential testament to the legacy of the Black Panther Party in Oakland, a city with a rich history of activism. The mural is a vivid reminder of the women who dedicated their lives to pursuing freedom, justice, and community service, leaving an indelible impact on society. Their stories and contributions continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of resilience, tenacity, and the relentless pursuit of a just world.