We are Oaklandish: Evan Asher

How were you introduced to Oaklandish and what is your role here?

I answered the job listing for a screen printer assistant. I assist the screen printers (and draw frogs on everything much to joe's chagrin).

What is your relationship with Oakland? 

I live here now. I moved to the Bay right before the Mayan end of the world. I moved to Oakland right before Covid. I'm not planning to move any time soon.

What makes Oakland unique from any other place in the world?

Despite it having so much historical and cultural influence over the US, people (outside of Oakland) seem to ignore it, write it off as "dangerous", or just straight up disrespect it in other ways (Oakland sports team owners...).

What is your favorite Oaklandish design, and/or merch item?

Anything with the tree logo is dope (would look cooler with a frog in it though). Still waiting on that Oaklandish x Croakland collab.

Oakland is known for its food scene, where is your favorite place to eat in the town, and what are you ordering?

I can get free chicken from all the fried chicken joints, but Aburaya is the best (i'm half Japanese btw.) Anything on their menu is fire.

How has working for Oaklandish shaped your idea of community?

The work culture here is really great which is something I've never had at any other job. we have the same issues as other places, but we're able to work through them without stressing each other out (too much). Plus I enjoy staying after my shift and kicking it with my co-workers, again, something I never had before.

What is something that must be experience in Oakland?

There's too many to mention. the art, music, sport, and queer communities are all very vibrant and unique. Just going out there and meeting people is a fun experience. However, a sideshow is probably the most Oakland thing you could experience.

If you could give the city of Oakland one thing, what would it be?

A frog. I actually give it one almost every day. (Evan draws his signature frog character everywhere)

A song that makes you think of Oakland, no matter where you are in the world.

"Sidekick" by Rancid! When I first moved up here I actually used to see/talk to Lars Frederiksen quite a bit. I used to live right off of West Grand too.

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Oakland is diverse and Oakland is proud. 'We Are Oaklandish' is a storytelling project created to highlight just that.

These are stories that shed light on the different experiences, memories, and opinions of the people in the city we all love. They are people who give our city its oddball spirit, its passion for justice, and its creative vigor. They lift us up with laughter, peace, nourishment, and authentic hard work.

They make us proud to call this town our home. They are Oaklandish.

Read more: We Are Oaklandish