Times Are Tough in Oakland — and That’s Why I Must Keep Running

We underdogs have to stick together

Lake Merritt in Oakland is the nation’s first wildlife refuge (all photos by author except where noted)

The path around Lake Merritt — which I run or walk almost daily — is the shape of a heart, albeit a slightly deformed one. It’s the perfect symbol of Oakland: a little beat up and rough around the edges, but full of things to love. With calm waters and seabirds galore, the lake was designated a wildlife refuge in 1870, the country’s first. It’s also my refuge, temporarily sheltering me from the din of urban life as I trace its perimeter with my feet.

Sadly, this sense of escape is slipping away. Though I bristle at sensationalistic portrayals of my hometown — Fox News recently declared Oakland a city “in decay” — crime is statistically and anecdotally on the rise. As a result, I am now careful about what I carry with me on runs and maintain a higher level of vigilance. My cautiousness is reminiscent of the days when I would step outside to smoke-filled skies or to the eerie hush of the pandemic. With a tinge of sorrow, I once again mask up, but this time my protective gear is invisible.

We spent Labor Day walking the lake’s heart-shaped loop (screenshot: strava.com)