Family of missing West Oakland woman to host rally TODAY, Saturday, Jan. 14 (Community Voices)

Family of missing West Oakland woman to host rally TODAY, Saturday, Jan. 14 (Community Voices)

No one knows exactly when 31-year-old Yasmeen Vaughan went missing from her West Oakland apartment. Her apartment was found in disarray and no sign of Yasmeen has turned up since November.

Yasmeen’s mother, Oakland icon Deborah Vaughan of Dimensions Dance Theater said Yasmeen’s boyfriend was the last to see her and she stopped taking his phone calls in late November.

Though she had a history of psychological problems, Yasmeen refused to seek help. 

“She didn't think she needed it," Deborah said. "She thought other people had the problem. It’s been a long struggle.” 

To bring attention to Yasmeen’s plight, her brother, Umi, has planned a rally from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday, Jan. 14, in the plaza of the West Oakland Branch Library, 1801 Adeline St.

Yasmeen, who also uses the alias, Kamisha Smith, estranged herself from her family more than a year ago. She resided in the apartment owned by her father, drummer Glen Vaughan.

Neither the police nor family believes foul play is involved in her disappearance. 

“I am concerned that due to the level of depression, isolation and agitation, she would harm herself or place herself in harm’s way,” Deborah explained.

A mother's tearful request: “I would ask everyone to just really pray for her, that she is safe, so that she can get help.”

 

 

 

 

 

Dafina Kuficha has been a licensed acupuncturist for almost 20 years. Her private practice is located in Berkeley. She's been writing poetry, prose, and short stories since childhood. For more information, you may contact Dafina by visiting her website: http://treasureyourhealthinstitute.com or by email: treasureyourhealth@yahoo.com.