The City of Oakland has revoked the longstanding reservations of the Orchid Society of California (OSC) at the Lakeside Garden Center, a venue that has served as the heart of the society’s activities for nearly 50 years. We, the undersigned, call on the City of Oakland and the Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Development to reinstate the Orchid Society’s reservations immediately and preserve this vital community tradition.

Why This Matters:
Founded in 1937, OSC is one of the oldest and most respected orchid societies in the nation. Since 1976, the Lakeside Garden Center has been home to the society’s meetings, educational programs, and the beloved annual Mother’s Day Sale, which draws attendees from across the Bay Area and beyond.

Revoking OSC’s access disrupts decades of community engagement, cultural enrichment, and education, depriving Oakland residents of valuable opportunities to learn and connect.

OSC’s events also contribute financially to the city, through rental fees and increased local traffic, while reinforcing Oakland’s reputation as a center of horticultural excellence.

We urge the City of Oakland to:

1. Reinstate the Orchid Society of California’s reservations at the Lakeside Garden Center.
2. Work collaboratively with OSC to ensure this partnership continues to benefit the community.
3. Recognize and honor OSC’s contributions to Oakland’s cultural and community life.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the preservation of a vital cultural institution and ensuring that the Lakeside Garden Center remains accessible for community organizations like the Orchid Society of California. Together, we can protect this cherished tradition for future generations.