Mayor Quan, Police Chief Jordan and Fire Chief Reed will gather
with over 190 Police Officers, Firefighters, and other city employees in Frank Ogawa Plaza tonight at 5:30 pm and then fan out throughout the City of Oakland to visit some of the record setting number of 605 National Night Out block parties taking place around the City.
“National Night Out is an opportunity for people to help improve public safety and raise crime prevention awareness in their neighborhood by having residents get to know each other through events like a barbecue or ice cream social,” said Mayor Jean Quan. “It’s these connections that build communities block by block and strengthen neighborhood spirit, unity and resolve. National Night Out empowers people and sends a simple, yet profound message: When neighbors know each other, neighborhoods are safer.”
In 2004, Oakland hosted only 35 National Night Out Block Parties throughout the city. Every year since, the number of parties has grown to last year’s record of 544 parties. This year, even more neighbors stepped up to host a party bringing the total to 605.
The City encourages neighbors to have a block party but also to start a
Neighborhood Watch Group on their street and to participate in their
Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council where they can work in partnership with the City solving problems in their neighborhood.
The Oakland A’s came through with a donation of 1200 baseball tickets—two for each party host to show their appreciation for stepping up.
From the Hills to the flat lands, more people than ever before are coming out to make their neighborhoods safer and stronger. We hope to see you tonight!
