“OAKland” By Quincy Russell

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OAKland 

By Quincy Russell

A modest dream. 

One set in rocky roads and redlining 

Filled with community and love

Held snugly in each of its resident’s hands,

From District 7 with its rich intelligence 

To District 1 with its glorious views of the heavenly Bay Area.

A jungle where Black Panthers hammer in their legacy,

Where artists, no matter their fame, go Billboard,

Where athletes stop time and reach the pinnacle of sports. 

Parks rise high with might and beauty. 

I say this to remind us that the Oak tree connects us all;

No matter our genes or leaves, we are all saplings of Oakland.