California vs Hate, Oakland Roots, and Community Leaders Kick Off United Against Hate Week with New Downtown Oakland Mural
This week, California vs Hate and the Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Club joined elected leaders, Toishan Benevolent Association, Not In Our Town, and community partners to launch the eighth annual United Against Hate Week (UAHW) with the unveiling of a new public mural, “Together, We Rise,” in downtown Oakland.
“We are always stronger when we come together,” said California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Secretary Tomiquia Moss. “United Against Hate Week is a chance for everyone from all walks of life to speak out against hate. I’m so proud of the leaders across California who are building up our communities, instead of tearing them down. From murals to film screenings to civil rights trainings, Californians always know how to show up for each other.”
The mural represents the capstone to an ongoing partnership between the Oakland Roots soccer team and California vs Hate. After hosting activations at heritage night games throughout the regular season, this event represents what is possible when the community comes together with a common goal.
“United Against Hate Week is about more than awareness — it’s about action,” said Civil Rights Department Director Kevin Kish. “With reports of hate crimes on the rise, Californians need resources for support and spaces to come together in solidarity. This mural is a testament to the resilience of people across California and a reminder that when we stand united, we can build communities rooted in justice and belonging.
“As a first generation Afghan American born and raised in Oakland and the Bay Area, this mural and its message resonate deeply with me,” said Oakland Roots and Soul SC Co-founder, Edreece Arghandiwal. “The message of love first, is profoundly important especially in this time we currently live in. Oakland is a champion of inclusivity and a beacon of purpose to the world. This mural is a physical representation of the ethos of Oakland Roots and Soul SC and our community.”
Together, We Rise
Created by Oakland’s Illuminaries Artist Collective, “Together, We Rise” weaves local landmarks like Lake Merritt and Chinatown with symbols of peace, unity, and guardianship embodied by the mythic “Oakness Monster.” The mural celebrates Oakland’s multicultural heritage while calling for solidarity and collective strength.
Located at 993 Jackson St, Oakland, CA 94607, the mural was the centerpiece of the UAHW kickoff, featuring performances and remarks from state and local leaders. The mural was made possible through the support of Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Club, Service West, San Jose Sharks, Oakland Ballers, California vs Hate, and the Toishan Benevolent Association, who were all present to celebrate the unveiling.
United Against Hate Week
Taking place October 19–25, United Against Hate Week mobilizes residents, civic leaders, and organizations nationwide to push back against hate through art, action, and education. Born in the Bay Area in 2017, the movement has grown into a national call for inclusive, equitable communities.
To find out more about events, visit the 2025 UAHW Calendar. To read more from the partners about the unveiling and United Against Hate Week, visit the CRD press page.
