Q: My name is Sean Johnson. We’re at the Oakland Eastmont Transit Center on October 26, 2012. I’m interviewing? A: D. L. Q: Spell that? A: I don’t want – see I don’t want to spell it and stuff like that.
Q: And this is a voice interview. A: ’Cause I don’t want to be on camera.
Q: I’mma ask you a few questions. If you could change one thing about your neighborhood, what would it be? A: Mm... let me think... if I could change one thing? I don’t know. That’s a good question. Go to the next one.
THE GRIOTS OF OAKL AND
Q: Alright. What are the first three words that come to mind when you think about African American men in Oakland? A: Umm... these niggas is wild, reckless and violent.
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Q: Alright, what are the first three words that come to mind when you think about yourself? A: Uh... I’m wise, good looking and cautious of what I do...
Q: Please share a time when you felt proud about your culture. A: Black History Month.
Q: Alright. Please complete this sentence, “Community is…?" A: Community is a neighborhood.
Q: What is it like being a young African American man in Oakland? A: Go to the next question.
Q: Have you ever felt ashamed of your culture? Please describe the situation. A: Yeah, I feel ashamed of my culture every day. Just the violence that go on day – ona daily basis. Q: Alright last question. What advice would you give other African American youth? A: Get on the right path and stop the violence. Q: Alright, thank you for your time.