For Destiny Jones, an Indigenous-owned farmers market is key to preserving cultural traditions — especially in a city, she says, that can sometimes be hostile and isolating to the community.
“It’s really exciting to be at the market, and to see all of these people that know each other or meeting up and looking around together,” Jones said.
She operates the Four Sisters Farmers Market in Minneapolis’ East Phillips neighborhood, which aims to preserve Indigenous traditions with Native vendors selling goods such as traditional pine cone jelly, jewelry and fresh fruits and vegetables.
While the market caters to Indigenous people, Jones also wants it to serve as an educational opportunity for others.
“When you’re working with Indigenous spaces, there are people that may already know what Ojibwe art looks like in comparison to Dakota art,” Jones said. “Vendors have to be prepared to answer those questions and facilitate a conversation.”
Four Sisters is one of several local farmers markets owned or operated by people who are Indigenous or people of color. BIPOC owners and operators say they aim to create a safe space for people to connect with one another and to share cultural experiences.
“People wanted to see each other, say hi to each other and really connect with folks even if people aren’t there for a market event,” said Mo Hanson, director of the Midtown Farmers Market.
The Midtown market, founded by the Corcoran Neighborhood Organization, wants to make food accessible for the community, Hanson said. It’s located near the Lake Street/Midtown light-rail station in Minneapolis, which provides visibility and accessibility in an area experiencing high rates of poverty. “We need a space that has alternative pricing and modes of commerce,” she said.
