OAKLAND- The Marcus Foster Education Institute invites you to celebrate the opening reception for “The Audacity to Believe”, a tribute to the life, legacy and impact of an Oakland giant: Dr. Marcus A. Foster, the urban education activist and superhero who gave his life for the children of Oakland. This free event will include live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres, and a conversation with local education advocate Oscar Wright, MFEI Board Member Vance Lewis and community leader and visionary Regina Jackson.
Dr. Marcus A. Foster was the definition of a community superhero. The first Black Superintendent of any major school system in the United States: Oakland Unified, he was a trailblazer whose life was cut short in 1973 due to his courage to bring innovation and accountability to the school system. He encouraged and challenged teachers and administrators to have “the audacity to believe” in the inherent talents of all young people, and pioneered a “Master Plan Citizens Committee” tasking each neighborhood of the city to draw up their community-led visions as part of the district’s strategic plan. His dedication to youth and community made him a fierce advocate and beloved leader. As a teacher who began her first year during his tenure shared, his presence and work made it so “We knew we were on our way to excellence.” His assassination cut that work short and left a community in mourning. Curated by local artist and storyteller Patanisha Williams as part of the Marcus Foster Education Institute’s 50th anniversary celebratory events, “The Audacity to Believe” pays tribute to his life and impact, and creates a long-needed space for the community to remember and heal.
On view: July 31 – November 30 2023
Location: The historic African American Museum and Library of Oakland is located at 659 14th Street, Oakland. The Museum and Library wheelchair accessible and is open and free to the public at the following hours:
Monday – Thursday 10 am – 5:30 pm
Friday 12 pm – 5:30 pm
Saturday 10 am – 5:30 pm
Register for free here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reset-vol-viii-youth-showcase-the-audacity-to-believe-opening-reception-tickets-678024929817
The Marcus Foster Education Institute (MFEI) was established by Dr. Marcus A. Foster in 1973 prior to his passing. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of MFEI and our work engaging community to see improved conditions, experiences, and outcomes for K-12 and postsecondary BIPOC and first-generation students. To learn more about MFEI, visit www.marcusfoster.org. For more information about the exhibit, contact info@marcusfoster.org.
This project is supported by a Humanities for All Quick Grant.
