ABOUT US

Established in 2021, the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council (OCIC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to maintaining and supporting Oakland Chinatown, its small businesses, residents, and the greater Chinatown community.

During the pandemic, Chinatown businesses suffered from a wave of losses due to xenophobic and misinformed beliefs that our neighborhood was linked to the coronavirus. A second wave of hardship ensued as our elders, residents, and small businesses were targets of seemingly senseless violence. 

OCIC, as a Community Benefits District (CBD), is a long-term solution to make our community feel safe, clean, and welcoming again. OCIC provides safety and cleanliness through ambassadors and security services, graffiti abatement, promotion of the unique qualities of our Chinatown and its businesses, management of events within our cultural district, coordination of volunteer efforts in Oakland Chinatown, and more.

OCIC is governed by a diverse Board of Directors made up of Oakland Chinatown community members which includes property owners, small business owners, non-profits, and residents.

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Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council (OCIC) was established with a mission to enhance the district through comprehensive cleaning, revitalization, and safety initiatives. Our Board of Directors is a diverse cross-section of our community. We believe that this diversity in backgrounds, viewpoints and values strengthen our organization. While individual Board of Directors maintain their personal political affiliations or religious beliefs, it is imperative to iterate that OCIC, as an organization, refrains from engaging in any activities that may be perceived as political or religious. Our primary focus remains steadfastly dedicated to the betterment of our community through nonpartisan and nonreligious efforts.