Home / Health / Oakland Plans AIDS Memorial at Lake Merritt
Oakland Plans AIDS Memorial at Lake Merritt
3 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A first-of-its-kind AIDS memorial garden is planned for Oakland's Lake Merritt.
- The garden honors lives lost to the epidemic and survivors.
- It will also pay tribute to researcher Dr. Dawn K. Smith.
An East Bay AIDS Memorial Garden is slated for construction at Lake Merritt, marking a monumental achievement for HIV advocates. Jesse Brooks, diagnosed in 1993, will see a memorial he once thought impossible. This garden will serve as a tribute to those lost and the generations who have persevered through the HIV epidemic.
The memorial will also recognize Dr. Dawn K. Smith, a CDC researcher instrumental in proving PrEP's efficacy and expanding access. Her daughter expressed the profound significance of her mother's legacy being integrated into this healing space. A bridge will be rebuilt and dedicated in Dr. Smith's honor.
Organizers envision the garden as a sanctuary for healing, openness, and visibility, maintained entirely by volunteers. Construction is anticipated to commence next year, offering a dedicated space for remembrance and reflection within the community.
