OAKLAND, Calif. (KRON) – An East Bay martial arts studio vows to remain open after dealing with repeated vandalism. The owners say they're just trying to share their passion while running a positive business for kids and families in West Oakland.
The studio owner said it was a frustrating experience having to keep cleaning and repairing damage. He said his studio should be a safe and inclusive space, but it has become a target for people who want it to disappear.
Damage to Afro-Brazilian martial arts studio Ax Oakland included broken windows and graffiti on the walls.
“I'm sad and disappointed because I was trying to understand what I did wrong in this community,” owner Lucivaldo de Oliveira said.
De Oliveira opened the studio four years ago with hopes of teaching the Brazilian art form capoeira, but over time the space has also grown into a community center for children and families. he says.
“We created something for the community to enjoy the space and feel connected to Brazilian culture,” he said.
He said the vandalism has included noise-related profanity complaints, and that most of the studio's classes are about music. His parents also expressed concerns about the damage to Mr de Oliveira.
“So, it's frustrating for me because I always want to try to make my parents comfortable. I'm doing everything I can to make them trust me, but I don't know if this situation will change soon.” I hope that,” de Oliveira said.
He says he has an idea who is behind the vandalism, but has not been able to prove it. He believes Ax will overcome this adversity and he is grateful for the support of his Oakland community.
“When the kids get there, they don't want to leave because they feel at home. What makes me strong is that they are by my side and never give up,” he said.
Since then, the Ax Oakland community has installed a mural to beautify the outside of the studio. De Oliveira says he hopes this will show vandals that they are not giving up.
