# @thetownexperience on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DYFKMATh4Aa
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/65216032-thetownexperience-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/0a71d9c403.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-05-08T14:20:01.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** TheTownExperience (@thetownexperience) — https://gondola.cc/thetownexperience

## Caption

OAKLAND FIRST FRIDAYS NEEDS  HELP! 🚨 ❤️

📺 amberktvu / ktvu2

Quote ♻️ For 13 years, First Fridays has been the heartbeat of our city, celebrating culture, art, and community. But now, organizers say the event’s survival is under threat.

The issue? Negative publicity linking the festival to violent incidents that happen hours after the event has already ended. Even though Oakland Police Chief James Beere clarified that recent incidents occurred miles and hours away from the festivities, sponsors are pulling out.

"We can't have fingers pointed at our event," says Director Venessa McGhee. "We believe activating the streets with positivity is what drives out the negativity."

Local businesses like Black Forest Kitchen say they see a 50% boost in business during the event. Without First Fridays, our local economy and community spirit take a hit.

👉 How to help: Organizers are currently raising funds to keep the monthly event alive. Link in oakfirstfridays bio! 

#OaklandFirstFridays #OaklandStrong #SupportLocal #CommunityFirst #KTVU

## Stats

- **Views:** 6,600
- **Likes:** 806
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 76

## Tags

oaklandfirstfridays, supportlocal, ktvu, communityfirst, oaklandstrong

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