Students who were interviewed for the “Griots of Oakland” sign the covers of the book.

AAMA and Story For All recruited five young men from the ages of 14 to 18 to serve as the conduit for the voices of black males throughout the city. All natives of Oakland, the boys were taught African American and Oakland history, as well as videography, by the non-profit. Through mock interviews that were conducted in public places, they were trained in active listening and public speaking. Classes also featured guest speakers such as syndicated talk show host Davey D, and Oscar Wright, an education activist.

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