Oakland, CA: Open Mics and Magic
Leila Mottley at the open mics hosted by Chapter 510 and the Department of Make Believe, Oakland, CA
On the first Friday of each month, musicians, magicians, dancers and DJs spill out onto West Grand and Telegraph Avenues in Oakland’s KONO district. Thousands of people from across the Bay Area arrive for an immersion in art and community, strolling streets that are humming with creative energy.
Among the artists making First Friday so memorable are young voices like that of Leila Mottley (pictured) and others participating in the open mics hosted by Chapter 510 & the Department of Make Believe.
Chapter 510 prides itself on being Oakland’s only youth writing center fronted by “the world's only magical bureaucracy.” Guided by a vision of the city “where our youth and their perspectives are visible and our teachers are honored and supported,” staff members provide free in-school programs, creative writing workshops and publishing opportunities for K-12 students. Chapter 510 is part of the 826 Chapter Development Process in partnership with 826 National.
Events like First Friday Open Mic are at the core of Chapter 510’s mission, celebrating and amplifying the insights and ideas of their students. Find out more about Chapter 510 and incredible young people like Leila here.