From Blacks to Brown and Beyond: The Struggle for Progressive Politics in Oakland, California, 1966-2017 examines Oakland social issues and politics from the inception of the Black Panther Party through the election of President Trump to answer the following questions: Is Oakland a progressive city? Who are the progressives in Oakland? What are they trying to accomplish?

The book provides firsthand accounts of political events and historic moments from the past 50 years through the eyes of a former resident of Oakland, author Robert Stanley Oden, who was a community activist involved in political formations and actions within the city. It explores the city’s mission to embrace racial equity and the social empowerment of the poor and people of color. Students learn how the social climate of Oakland has evolved over time and the dynamics of multicultural politics in the urban sector.

From Blacks to Brown and Beyond features real-life accounts and oral histories that provide students with a political dynamic and social context to analyze urban issues. The book is well-suited to courses in urban politics, ethnic studies, urban education, and local government.