Founded in 1852, Oakland is the 47th largest city in the United States with almost 400,000 residents speaking more than 150 different languages. Oakland is one of most diverse communities in the nation, with a vibrant immigrant community and a long tradition of cultural exchange. 
Situated in the beautiful Bay Area, it is often referred to as the “sunny side of the bay.” It boasts a sparkling shoreline as well as scenic hills. Oakland’s is home to a variety of attractions, including parks, museums, professional sports and an exciting downtown.
Locals and tourists alike enjoy the outdoor appeal of the scenic Lake Merritt, flanked by Children’s Fairyland, the oldest themed amusement park in the U.S., and the innovative Oakland Museum of California. The 100-acre Oakland Zoo and the Chabot Space and Science Center are also popular destinations for families.
Oakland reaps the economic benefits of its diversity – the neighborhoods of Chinatown and Fruitvale offer a range of cultural and commercial pursuits that draw visitors from all across the Bay Area and around the world. 
Oakland is a transportation and trade hub, with the fifth largest port in the country and the Oakland International Airport.
Oakland’s public K-12 schools serve more than 46,000 students. The city also houses several colleges, including Laney and Merritt community colleges, California College of the Arts, Holy Names University, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s alma mater, Mills College. Residents of the city also enjoy three major sports teams: the Golden State Warriors (basketball), the Oakland Athletics (baseball) and the Oakland Raiders (football).