Oakland businesses are set to strike, calling for improved public safety and monetary aid. Their plan is to shut their doors for a day in hopes for more support from the city. More than 200 businesses are planning on participating.
A rash of crime in Oakland has hurt businesses because they say there aren’t enough cops to address break-ins. The business owners add they are strapped by storefront repairs and losses from theft.
Oakland lost out on grants to address crime due to a missed deadline. The city is also still without a police chief after being fired back in February by Mayor Sheng Thao.
The retail sector is frustrated, and business owners hope to build awareness and solidarity with residents who also play a role.