2 minute read
What if we start from the premise of doing intentionally good things?
What if we start from the premise of doing intentionally good things?
BY LAURA PETERSEN
We’re inspired by Weaver Street Market, a food co-op in North Carolina with four stores and a food house. Weaver Street is leading the way through its program, “Game Changers.” Game Changers is the co-op's new label for a company or brand owned by individuals that identify as BIPOC.
Like many grocery stores, Weaver Street’s purchasing practices have historically overlooked communities of color. The natural food industry at large and the national co-op community are predominately spaces for white people. Products from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) vendors at Weaver Street represented less than 4 percent of the co-op’s total sales, although this demographic makes up 37 percent of North Carolina’s population.
After the death of George Floyd last summer, the co-op decided it was time to take a hard look in the mirror at the way it was doing business. It wasn’t easy, and at times uncomfortable. There were difficult conversations internally. But, they knew they had to do something.
“Look, we know we’ve done it poorly in the past. We know systemic racism has been part of that. What if we start from the premise of doing intentionally good things?” said James Watts, Weaver Street’s Head Merchandiser.
The E.Q.U.I.T.Y. Alliance was formed by and consists of a group of four Black Weaver Street employees. A subsequent group of “Champions” was formed, consisting of like-minded workers also dedicated to the mission of social justice and inclusivity.
“Our mission includes not just reconstructing the way we onboard vendors but reaching all aspects of our company from the inside out and how we welcome our community in our spaces,” says Allanah Hines, DEI Director. She says a culture shift is happening at Weaver Street.
By intentionally seeking out, supporting and partnering with BIPOC farmers and businesses they are helping them thrive through a new loan program and building a broader audience. “It’s humbling for me. It’s the power of enhancing these people. You have to be OK with failure. You can’t stop trying,” says Allanah.
We’ll be following Weaver Street and in the coming months, as part of our commitment to do better, we will be actively working to bring more products from BIPOC vendors to the Co-op’s shelves. We’d love your help!
Do you know or use products and brands that you think we should consider? Contact us at briarpatch.coop/get-in-touch
