06/27/2025
I’m intentional about where I spend my time and what I’m exposed to.
I avoid businesses with “no bag” policies, pat-downs, bulletproof glass, elevated checkout counters where staff look down on you, or policies limiting how many children can enter. These approaches create environments of suspicion and control. I don’t tolerate that—not because I’m “supporting” anything by shopping there, but because I choose not to place myself in those environments.
While I post frequently on social media, I rarely scroll or consume content. I avoid news feeds. I’m deliberate about what I let into my mental and physical space.
Theft and violence are part of life—and not unique to any one community.
Places with more opportunity often experience more theft. Downtown Chicago, for example, sees plenty—because people steal where there’s something to take. Violence is more common in areas of poverty, not because of who lives there, but because of systemic conditions.
In 2026, I’m opening a grocery store and café at 8105 S Halsted in Auburn Gresham—a $3M+ investment in the neighborhood. I want to be held to this promise:
There will be no metal detectors. No locked items. No fake security guards. No bag checks. No pat-downs. No bulletproof glass. No receipt checkers. No elevated checkout counters.
Other businesses in our community have used these tactics. I will not.
I trust the people in our community.
Most folks are good and honest. Theft will happen, but not at a level that will break this business. I’m confident, competent, and committed to running a successful store without criminalizing the people walking through the doors.
I’m a Black man with a Black family, raised in Black communities.
I’ve experienced firsthand how we’ve been treated by local businesses. I refuse to become what I once disliked. Other ethnic groups don’t run their stores like this in their own communities—even with similar risks.
We deserve environments rooted in respect—not suspicion.
I’ve watched successful businesses build welcoming spaces. That’s what I’m doing. Because leadership means doing it first.
