Founded by Debby Kajiyama and José Ome Navarrete Mazatl in 2001, NAKA Dance Theater creates interdisciplinary, experimental performance works. Through dance, storytelling, multimedia installations, and site-specific environments, NAKA builds partnerships with communities and engages people's histories and culture through accessible performances to challenge viewers to think critically about social justice issues. NAKA's work is deeply rooted in the Bay Area’s culturally diverse communities, including San Francisco's Tenderloin and East Oakland, and critical race discourse is woven throughout our work. NAKA practices lateral leadership, a process that prioritizes relationship-building and centers the voices of those who are most impacted.

Since 2015, NAKA has led somatic healing and performance workshops with the grassroots immigrant Latine community of Mujeres Unidas y Activas. NAKA facilitates Círculos de Aprendizaje (Collaborative Learning Circles) to identify critical issues facing a community, to exchange ideas, and to implement strategies for healing and well-being. Recent initiatives include an exploration of internalized anti-Blackness and anti-Indigeneity; a zine highlighting the challenges and joys of the community through visual art; and movement and storytelling workshops culminating in community performances celebrating Latine and Indigenous Maya Mam power. NAKA continues to organize LIVE ARTS IN RESISTANCE, a series of performance showcases, artist residencies, and community town halls that address racial inequity and supremacy in popular culture.