Oakland, California’s Indigenous Red Market connecting community while celebrating Indigenous culture through the vibrant beauty of art and dance.
On July 7, 2024, the vivid rhythms and rich traditions of the Indigenous Red Market flowed through the Fruitvale neighbourhood of Oakland, California.
Oakland, California’s Indigenous Red Market: a place to meet, celebrate indigenous culture, build community & heal
The Native American Health Center launched the Indigenous Red Market in 2018 as a cutting-edge approach to provide better, more culturally aware Indigenous health and wellness services. This event is free and open to all. It aims to provide a safe space where locals may meet, celebrate their Indigenous traditions, sell their artwork, and build a sense of community.
Dancers and Drummers at the Indigenous Red Market
I was captivated by the traditional dances as soon as I entered the busy market. The dancers, dressed in vibrant regalia, moved with strength and grace as they narrated tales that had been passed down generations. Every movement and gesture had deep cultural importance and spiritual meaning, reflecting the richness of their traditions. Everyone in the room was drawn in by the captivating ambiance that the deft footwork, flowing movements, and steady drum beats produced.
One particular moment stood out to me, not only for its mesmerising choreography but also for the heartfelt message shared by one of the dancers. She talked about the value of listening to kids, mentioning that the drummer of the group had founded the ensemble while he was still a young boy. This moving revelation served as a touching reminder that even the youngest members of our society are capable of wisdom and creativity.
Crafts, Art, Clothing & Other Vendors at the Indigenous Red Market
The market itself was a true goldmine of homemade apparel and jewellery, with each booth serving as a showcase for the talent and originality of native craftspeople. The jewellery had polished stones, elaborate beadwork, and traditional symbols. It was expertly made with great attention to detail. Glistening in the California sun were bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, each one expressing a unique tale of artistic brilliance and cultural legacy. The apparel was equally astounding, featuring exquisite textiles that showcased the intricate fabric of indigenous design.
The market was filled with a strong sense of love and camaraderie amidst the bright-coloured clothing and upbeat music. With laughter and chatter filling the air, families and friends gathered together. As a result of their mutual appreciation for the performances and the crafts, strangers also became into friends. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and appreciation, a celebration not just of culture, but of the connections that bring people together.
The market didn’t seem to be slowing down as the day wore on. More acts and music filled the air, maintaining a high level of energy. There was an obvious sense of pride and belonging everywhere I looked, which is evidence of the tenacity and resiliency of the Indigenous population.
More than just a gathering, the Indigenous Red Market in Oakland was a vivacious celebration of love, community, and culture. It served as a timely reminder to all in attendance of the value of respecting the past, enjoying the present, and fostering the future. Together with fond memories of the exquisite crafts and graceful dances, I also left the market with a profound appreciation for the sense of community that had contributed to the day’s uniqueness.
Stay tuned on their Indigenous Red Market Instagram for their next market. The 2025 Indigenous Red Market dates are May 18 and July 6th.
Oakland, California Accommodations Map
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Thank you for sharing! I am interested in the indigenous histories of different places around the world. It’s amazing how their traditions are intertwined, even though they haven’t met. Like creation myths about the origins of the earth. Navajo, have stories about the emergence of humans from the underworld, Maori have tales of creation from “Mother Earth”.