There are numerous perspectives on how to understand and engage with some of the larger economic issues facing our world. I for one see the destructive nature of increasingly large and aggressive corporations that leverage cutthroat tactics to secure a consumer base and expand products and monopolies. The question then is how to respond. Some advocate for smaller local economies that are more sustainable and resilient to the increasingly devastating effects of transnational corporations. The reality, as I understand it, is that this model tends to not actually address global issues as these local expressions remain either directly tied into the larger economic structure or function in an isolated and ineffective margin. Until I have a better grasp of the larger structures and have a sense of how to respond I have decided to shift, to a small extent anyway, towards local economies for another reason.
Reason #1 – Juba Halal Foods at 524 Sargent (between Young and Langside)
My wife was looking for dates and since this place carried a variety she asked the man behind the counter about the differences. This led to a 20 minute overview of the historical, religious and nutritional value of dates in the Middle East. These candied jewels helped nomads survive in the desert and old-men survive constipation. Men and women were to take them at different times of the day. They essentially contain everything essential.
Reason # 2 Selam Foods (714 Ellice between Victor and Toronto)
We stopped in here simply to look around and found ourselves engaged in conversation over an exotic spice my wife had not heard of before (which is saying something). The man behind the counter took time to let us smell the spice and described different ways it could be used to prepare tea of ground up for various dishes.
Reason # 3 -El Izalco (696 Sargent between Victor and Toronto)
Here my wife and I were greeted by Sarah. She kindly asked us if we were looking for anything. As we came to the refrigerated section she pointed out her homemade Tamales and Papusas as well as various sauces and salsas (she also said she was out of the sausage she makes). We mentioned that we were returning to the neighbourhood after being away she welcomed us here and told us stop in again.
These three reasons for shopping local may make absolutely no change in larger economic systems. They do, however, help to sustain local business people allowing them to continue to have pride and freedom to express their gifts and traditions. This is reason enough for me and almost feels selfish with what I receive in return.
Rich! – your experience, description and, by default encouragement. Thanks David.
I would certainly say that some of the best shopping in Winnipeg is in the West End, and of course the restaurants are fabulous too as you already stated in a previous post.
It is so nice to have photos accompany your words!
hey i think ive been to this place, the lady there kisses the kids and gives them a sucker, and sent us home with plantains to try. Sam goes there more often.
(the mexican place)
I went to the Spence Street Thrift Store the other day.
Sadly all there was there was outdated and stained clothes.
This store is in a real need of decent donations.
When my kids grow out of their clothes I will definitely send them there.
I hope others will be encouraged to give there.