Black Men’s Chess League Celebrated Anniversary
The West Oakland organization marked its first year of operation with a community event at Prescott Market.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in African-American
Live Poll
In your area, do community groups effectively help residents build meaningful social connections?
On August 16, 2026, the Black Men's Chess League hosted an anniversary celebration at Prescott Market. More than 200 people registered to attend the event in West Oakland.
Why it matters
The league was established to provide a space for connection, teaching, and brotherhood. Founders created the organization to leverage the game of chess as a tool for social bonding.
The anniversary celebration saw over 200 sign-ups, a significant growth from the league's start with fewer than eight members. The organization now facilitates games across 64 squares on a board to foster community ties.
The players
Alton Kennedy
He is one of the three founders of the Black Men's Chess League.
Chris Morgan
He serves as a founding member of the community chess organization.
JaColbrian Benard
He is a co-founder of the organization that promotes brotherhood through chess.
The details
Founded by Alton Kennedy, Chris Morgan, and JaColbrian Benard, the league hosts regular games to strengthen community connections. The organization has also expanded its impact by launching a youth chess program in Oakland.
Timeline
Theophilus Thompson published a notable chess book in 1873.
The Black Men's Chess League held its anniversary event on August 16, 2026.
Culture Shift
This growth highlights the enduring importance of chess in African-American intellectual and social life, following the legacy established by Theophilus Thompson's 1873 chess book. The league's expansion signals a return to community-focused intellectual pastimes.
Oakland residents can participate in the league's ongoing youth program through online sign-ups and community outreach. The expansion of these games provides local families with new opportunities for extracurricular engagement.
The takeaway
The success of the league demonstrates how simple social clubs can foster deep community bonds. By focusing on shared interests, residents can create lasting supportive networks in their own neighborhoods.
Further reading
Discover more about local community initiatives by visiting the African-American section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oakland Voices.
Live Poll
In your area, do community groups effectively help residents build meaningful social connections?
