East Cleveland Fights for Food Power

Plus, a reader-inspired story about climate change prep, and an examination of "cacao ceremonies."

AuthorAuthor

Lena Beck & Modern Farmer
October 13, 2024

Hello! Lena here, staff writer at Modern Farmer.

This week, come with us to East Cleveland where Modern Farmer contributor Hadassah Patterson introduces us to Loiter, an intergenerational gathering space that “purchases from, employs, houses, and empowers Black and BIPOC makers.” Loiter runs a cafe and market, a Black business incubator, an affirmative foods company, and more. 

Despite antagonistic moves by the organization’s landlord, Loiter opened its doors to the community last month. I hope you will read about their journey.

How one organization is growing self-determination and food justice amid a barren landscape for Black-owned businesses.

An overhead view of people gathering in a new cafe space

A community event in the Loiter cafe shortly before the grand opening | Photo: Loiter

Also fresh this week

raised garden beds full of healthy plants

Local food production can help address food insecurity | Photo: Shutterstock/Maria Sbytova

Climate change negatively impacts food security. A reader wrote in asking how their city could plan for it.

Two cacao farmers work over a blue bucket to remove cacao seeds and pulp from pods

Oaxacan cacao farmers removing the cacao seed and pulp from the pods | Photo: Antonio Michelena Gallardo

New Age cacao ceremonies tout “ceremonial grade cacao.” What happens to ceremony in our time when such tools can be packaged, promoted and sold in the same way as a candy bar?

A woman smiles holding a basket of fava beans

Mandela Food Co-op Manager Anj Talley | Photo: Fox Nakai

When $1,000 is spent at a food co-op, it’s estimated that $1,604 is generated back into the local economy and food system.

Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you next week!

~ LB

Weekly Action | Loitering laws have a history of targeting Black communities. Learn more by reading P.R. Lockhart’s story for Vox.