Oakland Witnesses Historic Squatter Takeover of Abandoned WarehouseOakland Witnesses Historic Squatter Takeover of Abandoned Warehouse In a bold display of housing activism, a group of individuals claiming to be unhoused and low-income families have occupied an abandoned warehouse in West Oakland, igniting a debate about housing rights and the city’s response to homelessness. The warehouse, once a thriving manufacturing facility, has stood vacant for nearly a decade, becoming an eyesore in the neighborhood. On Saturday, a group of people, identifying themselves as the “West Oakland Collective,” broke into the property and began the process of transforming it into a makeshift shelter. “We’re tired of living on the streets, in our cars, or in shelters,” said Maria, a single mother with three young children. “We deserve a decent place to live.” The collective has established a community kitchen, sleeping quarters, and a common space within the warehouse. They have also installed basic utilities, such as water and electricity. The takeover has sparked mixed reactions from the Oakland community. Some residents support the collective’s actions, arguing that it highlights the city’s failure to address homelessness and provide affordable housing. Others are concerned about the safety and legality of the occupation. Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf has expressed sympathy for the collective but has emphasized that the city cannot condone illegal behavior. She has ordered the police to monitor the situation and work with the occupants to find a peaceful resolution. “We understand the desperation of people who are unhoused, but we also have to uphold the law,” Schaaf said. Housing advocates are calling for the city to negotiate with the collective and explore alternative housing options. They argue that the warehouse takeover is a symptom of a larger housing crisis that requires urgent action. “This is not a squatters’ problem, but a systemic housing problem,” said Emily Withrow, executive director of Oakland Tenants Union. “We need to invest in permanent affordable housing and support services that prevent people from falling into homelessness.” The fate of the West Oakland Collective remains uncertain. The city has not yet taken any legal action to evict the occupants, but negotiations are ongoing. The warehouse takeover has become a symbol of the deep-rooted housing crisis in Oakland and has sparked a wider debate about the role of civil disobedience in addressing homelessness.