Mission, Vision, Values

The mission of the Oakland Museum of California is to inspire understanding and empathy with stories and experiences of California’s art, history, and natural environment to build more equitable and connected communities. 

We envision a just and vibrant future where our communities value and honor one another and the world around us. 

OMCA’s Core Values are: 

Equity: We acknowledge injustices in our society and take responsibility for challenging them. We hold ourselves accountable, strive to repair harm, and invite healing with openness and humility. 

Courage: We take risks, experiment, and explore with curiosity and a commitment to growth. 

Collaboration: We partner in reciprocity with the community to catalyze dialogue and elevate stories, movements, and creative expressions that shape our world. 

Belonging: We aspire to be a gathering place where everyone feels welcome. We foster connection with family, community, and the natural world to which we all belong. Inspiration: We celebrate art and culture that broaden the imagination. Our museum and garden spark contemplation, wonder, and joy.

OMCA nurtures its deep ties to the community by offering many educational and outreach programs. We welcome schools, scholars, local audiences, and all visitors to participate in our events and activities and to discover their place in California’s past, present, and future.