In an effort to spotlight the rising violence and theft that recently has threatened many Oakland residents and the urgent need to protect residents from it, Make Oakland Better Now and the Metropolitan-Greater Oakland Democratic Club (MGO) have partnered to host the first mayoral candidate debate of the season on Thursday, April 3, 6:30 p.m., at Temple Sinai, 2808 Summit St. in Oakland.

MOBN! and MGO have confirmed mayoral candidates Jason Anderson, Patrick McCullough, Bryan Parker, Jean Quan, Courtney Ruby, Libby Schaaf, Nancy Sidebotham, Dan Siegel and Joe Tuman will participate in the forum.

"This debate will provide an opportunity for Oakland residents to hear the real views of the candidates about public safety solutions," said Bruce Nye, president of MOBN!

Local journalists Bob Gammon, East Bay Express; Matt Artz, Oakland Tribune; Chip Johnson, San Francisco Chronicle; and Bianca Brooks, Youth Radio will ask hard-hitting, probing questions.

Gretchen White, president of MGO, stated that the debate "puts a spotlight on the issue Oaklanders care about most-their personal safety."

The debate is free and open to the public. RSVP for planning purposes at oaklandmayoraldebate.eventbrite.com.