by Anthony Hernandez, Board Member
In recent years, many institutions have engaged in discussions about diversity. Unfortunately, some have halted the crucial work needed to advance their organizations. At Willy Street Co-op, however, we not only emphasize the importance of diversity but also take concrete actions to achieve equity. Through both small adjustments and significant initiatives, we are actively committed to this cause. We have invested considerable time in developing strategic approaches to drive progress, and I am pleased to report that our efforts are yielding positive outcomes. Our dedication to diversity is evident in the enhancements we’ve made across our organization. (Dear reader, thank you for your interest in this piece. I am thrilled to announce that below awaits a dramatic revelation about one of my favorite Inclusive Trade vendor products).
One standout initiative at Willy Street Co-op is our Inclusive Trade program. This program highlights products from vendors that are owned, controlled, and operated by individuals from underrepresented groups. Vendors who are at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by people who identify as women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and persons with disabilities qualify as Inclusive Trade vendors. By spotlighting these vendors, we not only help our members discover high-quality products aligned with their values but also support these vendors in gaining visibility in the marketplace. This initiative propels our goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion forward for both our vendors and customers.
In our stores, products from Inclusive Trade vendors are marked on price tags and highlighted on posters, signs, and flyers where applicable. Specific Inclusive Trade vendors receive special recognition during designated months such as Pride Month and Black Business Month. Additional information about our Inclusive Trade vendors is readily accessible on our website.
I have some personal Inclusive Trade vendor favorites: Tortilleria Zepeda Organic Yellow Corn Tortillas, Vegan Blue Tucson Tamales, and Bunky’s hummus. (I adore Bunky’s hummus!) For years, I had a recurring dream where I was a dinosaur from the Mesozoic era. In this dream, paleontologists announced a remarkable discovery: the fossilized remains of a previously unknown dinosaur that had a fondness for hummus. To my surprise, they correctly identified this dinosaur as me — the “hummusaurus.” Indeed, we offer exceptional products in our stores through the Inclusive Trade vendor program. I encourage you to explore and discover something you truly adore. Fortunately, there are numerous excellent options available for you to choose from.
Encouraging individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations and enter the marketplace is crucial. However, it is equally vital to dismantle barriers that hinder their path to ensure accessibility and smooth navigation. Simply cheering on isn’t enough; creating pathways for producers to introduce their products benefits everyone involved, enabling our members to access desired products while fostering a mutually beneficial environment.
Lastly, I would like to remind our community that this fall, three Board seats at Willy Street Co-op will become available. My personal experience serving on the Board has been immensely fulfilling. Our Board’s work positively impacts various aspects of our community, and I encourage interested members, as well as those contemplating Board service, to explore how they can contribute to our organization’s continued growth and success. Find out more at
In recent years, many institutions have engaged in discussions about diversity. Unfortunately, some have halted the crucial work needed to advance their organizations. At Willy Street Co-op, however, we not only emphasize the importance of diversity but also take concrete actions to achieve equity. Through both small adjustments and significant initiatives, we are actively committed to this cause. We have invested considerable time in developing strategic approaches to drive progress, and I am pleased to report that our efforts are yielding positive outcomes. Our dedication to diversity is evident in the enhancements we’ve made across our organization. (Dear reader, thank you for your interest in this piece. I am thrilled to announce that below awaits a dramatic revelation about one of my favorite Inclusive Trade vendor products).
One standout initiative at Willy Street Co-op is our Inclusive Trade program. This program highlights products from vendors that are owned, controlled, and operated by individuals from underrepresented groups. Vendors who are at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by people who identify as women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and persons with disabilities qualify as Inclusive Trade vendors. By spotlighting these vendors, we not only help our members discover high-quality products aligned with their values but also support these vendors in gaining visibility in the marketplace. This initiative propels our goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion forward for both our vendors and customers.
In our stores, products from Inclusive Trade vendors are marked on price tags and highlighted on posters, signs, and flyers where applicable. Specific Inclusive Trade vendors receive special recognition during designated months such as Pride Month and Black Business Month. Additional information about our Inclusive Trade vendors is readily accessible on our website.
I have some personal Inclusive Trade vendor favorites: Tortilleria Zepeda Organic Yellow Corn Tortillas, Vegan Blue Tucson Tamales, and Bunky’s hummus. (I adore Bunky’s hummus!) For years, I had a recurring dream where I was a dinosaur from the Mesozoic era. In this dream, paleontologists announced a remarkable discovery: the fossilized remains of a previously unknown dinosaur that had a fondness for hummus. To my surprise, they correctly identified this dinosaur as me — the “hummusaurus.” Indeed, we offer exceptional products in our stores through the Inclusive Trade vendor program. I encourage you to explore and discover something you truly adore. Fortunately, there are numerous excellent options available for you to choose from.
Encouraging individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations and enter the marketplace is crucial. However, it is equally vital to dismantle barriers that hinder their path to ensure accessibility and smooth navigation. Simply cheering on isn’t enough; creating pathways for producers to introduce their products benefits everyone involved, enabling our members to access desired products while fostering a mutually beneficial environment.
Lastly, I would like to remind our community that this fall, three Board seats at Willy Street Co-op will become available. My personal experience serving on the Board has been immensely fulfilling. Our Board’s work positively impacts various aspects of our community, and I encourage interested members, as well as those contemplating Board service, to explore how they can contribute to our organization’s continued growth and success. Find out more at willystreet.coop/run-for-board.
