MCPD Commissioners

Chair Anwar Baroudi

Anwar Baroudi

Anwar Baroudi is an Oakland resident whose transit and disability advocacy stems from his own experience with low vision (achromatopsia). Growing up in Mississippi without the ability to drive or bike before coming to the Bay and experiencing walkability and transit for the first time has shaped his view on what an accessible city can and should be. Alongside his work on the Commission, he advocates for better conditions for pedestrians and peoples with disability as President of the non-profit Transport Oakland, and is also an active member with Traffic Violence Rapid Response. In his free time, you can often find him taking any opportunity to go swing dancing, taking long walks, or cooking with friends.

Term Start Date: Oct 9, 2023

Term End Date: Oct 8, 2026

 

Co-Vice Chair Benjamin Bartu

Benjamin Bartu

Commission Vice Chair (first term)

Benjamin Bartu (he/him) is the Disabled Ecologies Lab Manager at UC Berkeley, where he researches the creation of disability in human and nonhuman bodies at USEPA superfund sites. Before working at the UC, he taught high school English at Oakland’s Mentoring Academy, and earned his Master’s Degree in Human Rights, Gender, and Public Policy at Columbia University. He immigrated to Oakland in 2006 and has called the East Bay home ever since.

Term Start Date: Oct 9, 2021

Term End Date: Oct 8, 2024

Co-Vice Chair Fatimah Aure

Fatimah Aure

Commission Vice Chair (first term)

Fatimah Aure joined MCPD for the second time in 2022 and is The Kelsey’s Director of Field Building & Capacity. With a communications degree from Northwestern University and a Public Policy Masters from UC Berkeley, managing meaningful nonprofit programming is her sweet spot. She leads the efforts to grow the field of leaders, advocates and champions of disability-forward housing solutions. She dreams of a day when affordable, accessible and inclusive housing is a given for any new developments. She is fueled by The Kelsey’s commitment to a co-led movement by people with and without disabilities. She uses a cane for balance and coordination stemming from a neurological movement condition. Born and raised in San Francisco, now an Oakland resident with her husband Seth and dog Duke Ellington. When she is not working, she loves to travel, bake and adhere to a strict skincare routine.

Before The Kelsey, Fatimah managed programming at IGNITE (Young Women Empowered through Politics), Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center (Local Small Business Ownership) and Okta (Corporate Social Responsibility).

Term Start Date: Sep 3, 2022

Term End Date: Sep 3, 2025

 

Commissioner James Carter

Commissioner Brittaney Creswell

Brittaney Creswell

Commissioner (first term)

Brittaney Creswell is a dedicated advocate for accessibility and inclusivity, serving as a valuable member of the City of Oakland's Mayor's Commission on Persons with Disabilities. With a background in administrative roles at renowned museums such as SFMOMA and the Exploratorium, Brittaney brings a wealth of organizational expertise and a passion for championing the rights of individuals with disabilities. Her commitment to teamwork and providing exceptional service shines through in her work, while her devotion to promoting equality extends beyond her professional endeavors. In her free time, Brittaney finds joy in staying active through Pilates and cherishing moments with her loved ones.

Term Start Date: Apr 30, 2024

Term End Date: Sep 2, 2026

 

Commissioner Raven Foote

Raven Foote

Commissioner (first term)

Raven Foote, originally from Los Angeles, has embraced the Bay Area as her home since 2018. With a wealth of experience as a Probate Examiner at the Alameda County Superior Court, she specializes in meticulously reviewing Conservatorship cases, dedicated to safeguarding the rights of individuals with mental and physical disabilities. Raven's passion extends beyond her professional role, as she actively advocates for the civil liberties of those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Outside the courtroom, she finds joy in exploring the world alongside her loved ones, embracing the enriching experiences of travel.

Term Start Date: Apr 30, 2024

Term End Date: Sep 2, 2024

 

Commissioner Kaitlin Roh

Kaitlin Roh

Commissioner (first term)

Kaitlin Roh is an Oakland resident and consultant who works with foundations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Kaitlin brings both personal and professional experience in the area of disability and behavioral health. She has two siblings with disabilities and previously worked for parent resource centers in Minnesota and New York, helping families with children and youth with disabilities navigate education, healthcare, and benefit systems. Kaitlin has her master's degree in public policy from Princeton University. When she isn't working or serving on the Commission, Kaitlin enjoys playing board games and hiking in all the East Bay parks.

Term Start Date: Apr 30, 2021

Term End Date: Sep 2, 2024

 

Commissioner Linda St. Julian

Commissioner Jia Wilson

Jia Wilson

Commissioner (first term)

Julia "Jia" Wilson (She/Her) is an Oakland-based landscape designer passionate about universal design and accessibility. She has over a decade of experience in accessible design and working with individuals with various disabilities.  After interning with the Center for Independent Living's Residential Access Program, Jia became even more interested in creating a more accessible East Bay that truly serves the residents and community. She hopes to serve Oaklanders with and without disabilities and create a city that's welcoming to all. When Jia isn't working or serving on the commission, you can find her playing with her dog or dancing.

Term Start Date: Sep 3, 2024

Term End Date: Sep 2, 2027