Activism
Dec. 19 Council Meeting Could Affect Future of Geoffrey’s Inner Circle
Geoffrey’s is a historic treasure, located in downtown Oakland at 410 14th St. Once an all-white, male-only club, the building was transformed by Mr. Pete into a place where regular residents listen to jazz; host benefits, hold meetings and galas; and feel warmly welcomed.
By Post Staff
Oaklanders will have a chance to support one of the most important Black businesses in the city on Tuesday, Dec.19 at 4 p.m. when the Oakland City Council will hear Geoffrey’s Inner Circle explain why a wealthy developer’s proposal is a danger to his business and the whole Black Movement Arts and Business District.
Geoffrey’s is a historic treasure, located in downtown Oakland at 410 14th St.
Once an all-white, male-only club, the building was transformed by Mr. Pete into a place where regular residents listen to jazz; host benefits, hold meetings and galas; and feel warmly welcomed.
And on some occasions Geoffrey sets out his best linen and most delicious food to serve those who live without a home as his honored guests.
The area was established as a Black Arts District by the City council in 2016. The Planning Commission has ignored this designation ever since and gave the green light to Tidewater developers to build more unneeded office space or more of the housing that no one in Oakland can afford.
In the process the construction would create damage to Geoffrey’s business in a variety of ways.
