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Richard Oakes Multicultural Center

The Richard Oakes Multicultural Center promotes a multi-ethnic, culturally conscious University.
The Richard Oakes Multicultural Center is a space for cultural events and discussions that focus on everything from inspirational leaders to commemorative months. The Center also provides a collaborative and supportive environment that promotes a multi-ethnic, culturally conscious university that affirms the human and intellectual heritage of all people.The Center encourages and welcomes all members of the University and greater community to initiate or participate in its student focused and directed programs and activities.

History

In December 1998, the Student Center Governing Board approved the new multicultural center to be named after Native American activist, Richard Oakes, for his sacrifices in promoting higher education, social justice, and human rights through self-determination and intellectual activism. The Cesar Chavez Student Center and the Richard Oakes Multicultural Center gratefully acknowledges to Native peoples, along with the greater San Francisco State University campus, that it occupies a site historically belonging to the Muwekma Ohlone people.

Richard Oakes promoted the fundamental idea that Native peoples have a right to sovereignty, justice, respect and control over their own destinies. His legacy reflects the struggles of Native peoples and all people to maintain their land, identity and lifeways.

The Center is dedicated to the inclusion of all voices and experiences, and the promotion of activist models of organizations that unite people in the active pursuit of self-determination, identity, and knowledge of personal and human experiences.

What We Do

Our annual Mural Celebrations pay tribute to influential figures such as Malcolm X, Edward Said, and Cesar Chavez, while also honoring marginalized communities like Native Americans and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. In addition to these mural celebrations, ROMC annually hosts events such as Banned Books Week, the Womxn of Color Healing Symposium, and the Womxn of Color Writer Series.

The day-to-day operations of ROMC involve providing a resource library and study space to our campus community. Our space offers complimentary snacks and study materials, featuring an extensive collection of ethnic studies books, comprising over 700 titles. The largest sections within this collection focus on Native American Studies, Women of Color Writers, and Africana Studies.

Click here for
Library Database

Mission Statement

The Richard Oakes Multicultural Center (ROMC) is committed to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive campus community. The ROMC is a dynamic hub for meaningful conversations, fostering a culturally aware atmosphere throughout the university. While the ROMC is predominantly student-led, we welcome participation from all San Francisco State University members and the wider community in our diverse array of programs and initiatives, which include:

  • Cultural performances
  • Student-led teaching initiatives
  • Roundtable discussions
  • In-depth speaking engagements
  • Conferences
  • Workshop activities
  • Study sessions
  • Film screenings

Contact Us

Contact Info

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8am-3pm
Tuesday: 8am-4pm
Wednesday: 8am-5pm
Thursday: 8:30am-10:30am & 11:30am-6:00pm
Friday: Closed