The world lost a true giant with the untimely passing of the incredible PABLO A. CRISTI, a friend, a revolutionary artist, dedicated educator, and pillar of many communities.
A son of Los Angeles and a proud child of Chilean exiles, Pablo carried his family’s history of resistance into every brushstroke he took. He poetically turned his heritage of resilience into a masterclass in social justice.
To his students at the Oakland School for the Arts, Pablo was more than a teacher; he was a life coach who emphatically championed their success. He taught them that art is both a powerful weapon for social change and a vital tool for self-discovery. Pablo used his art to amplify the powerful voices of the marginalized.
To those lucky enough to know him, Pablo didn't just offer a handshake; he welcomed you with a big brotherly hug. He was a man of deep heart and purpose, and he will be dearly missed.
Descansa en paz, amigo mĂo
Pablo
"Where Stars Are Born & Legends Are Made. "
Kiki Shepard 🕊💔🙏🏾
was an actress, dancer and television host. Though best known as the co-host of Showtime at the Apollo for 15 years streching from the 80's to the early 2000's.
Happy Black History Month 2026 (Final Day)
Gordon Parks
was a photographer, composer, author, poet, and filmmaker, who became prominent in U.S. documentary photojournalism  in the 1940s through 1970s—particularly in issues of civil rights, poverty and African Americans—doing it all in Glamour Photography.
Happy Black History Month 2026
Charles Sullivan
was a entrepreneur, event planner and party promoter known for sharp suits, loose billfold and know as the richest man in the Fillmore. Sullivan had come to the west coast in search of work as a machinist. When union racism blocked him from the industry, he chauffeured on the Peninsula, and eventually opened a bar and restaurant in San Mateo. As the Western Addition filled with Black workers, Sullivan eyed opportunity. Fillmore Street was known as Swing Street, and the once-indentured man set out to become the people’s mayor. His empire encompassed liquor, jukeboxes, and vending machines.
Happy Black History Month 2026
Dennis Richmond
was the chief anchor with KTVU from Oakland for over 40 years. Richmond joined KTVU on April 23, 1968, as a clerk typist, and became anchor in 1976—one of the first African-Americans to become chief anchor of a major-market TV newscast. A certified Bay Area Legend
Happy Black History Month 2026
Marshall "Major" Taylor
was the first superstar of cycling. He was known as the fastest man on a bike and was a global phenomenon at a time when telegrams were the height of technology. Even though Taylor faced prejudice and racism from the entire bicycling community, including the League of the time, as he pursued track records and world championships, he remained a true World Champ.
Happy Black History Month 2026
Eartha M. Kitt
was an singer, actress, and songwriter known for her distinctive singing style, intense stage presence and magnetic personality. Eartha was also a huge civil rights advocate and UNICEF spokesperson.
Happy Black History Month 2026
Willi Ninja
was a Dancer and Choreographer who specialized in Voguing  and was a fixture of Ball Culture at Harlem's drag balls who took inspiration from sources as far-flung as Fred Astaire and the world of Haute Couture to develop a style of dance and movement.
Happy Black History Month 2026
Hook Mitchell
is a Streetball Legend home grown from Oakland. A McClymond's High basketball standout, Hook razzled & dazzle the Streetball world, know for his insane hops, he would jump over people, motorcycles and cars. Half Man Half Amazing.
Happy Black History Month 2026
YasukeÂ
was an African man who became Japan's first foreign-born Samurai, serving the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga in the late 15th century during the Sengoku period. Yasuke was a highly skilled trusted warrior who participated in major campaigns like the invasion of Iga.
