For more than 60 years, The Unity Council has stood as a trusted voice and steadfast advocate for the families, children, and seniors who make Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood—and the greater East Bay—thrive. Like so many in our community, we share the fear, anger, and uncertainty that recent reports have caused. But we urge our community: be prepared, not scared. The Unity Council has been closely monitoring the situation and have very strong and open lines of direct communication with our elected officials from federal, regional, and local levels – to receive the most up to date information.
Recent reports of potential ICE and Border Patrol activity in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties have understandably created anxiety among our neighbors. Today, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee provided an important update to our community:
“I spoke with Alameda County Sheriff Yesenia Sanchez, who confirmed through her communications with ICE that Border Patrol operations are cancelled for the greater Bay Area—including Oakland—at this time.”
This confirmation brings relief, but we recognize that fear and mistrust remain. As we have always done, The Unity Council stands ready to protect, inform, and uplift our community with compassion and courage.
We stand proud and confident in our decision to move forward with our 30th Annual Oakland Día de los Muertos Festival. This year’s festival theme, “Aquí Estamos y No Nos Vamos – We Are Here and We Aren’t Going Anywhere,” resonates more powerfully than ever. For decades, this festival has celebrated our culture, strengthened small businesses, and supported the Fruitvale economy. We refuse to allow fear or intimidation to silence our joy or erase our traditions. Instead, we will move forward—celebrating safely, proudly, and united.
To ensure a safe and welcoming experience for everyone, The Unity Council is working closely with city and community partners to enhance preparedness and safety. This year, we are:
- Developing a cross-collaborative emergency preparedness plan with the City of Oakland Emergency Services and community-based organizations.
- Activating a Know Your Rights Pavilion offering resources, training, and free legal consultations.
- Deploying ACILEP & Bay Resistance-trained volunteers throughout the festival footprint to serve as community observers and “ICE Watchers.”
- Increasing the presence of Security and Safety Ambassadors in Fruitvale through a City of Oakland grant to monitor activity and assist attendees.
- Expanding Know Your Rights trainings for staff, vendors, and community members.
- Distributing “Red Card” resources to families and residents.
- Reactivating the Resilient Fruitvale Coalition to coordinate response efforts and connect families with trusted information and resources.
We encourage everyone to stay calm, connected, and prepared—but not scared. Please carry identification with you and communicate with family, neighbors, and community networks about how to stay safe and support one another.
For trusted information about your rights and legal protections, visit:
If you or someone you know needs legal help or support, please reach out to:
Spanish Speaking Citizens Foundation: (510) 261-7839
Centro Legal de la Raza: (510) 437-1554
Together, we will continue to honor our ancestors, uplift our culture, and stand firm in our commitment to a strong, united Fruitvale community.
