By Barbara Clark, Board President

“Everyone Welcome” is a motto the co-op adopted many years ago. We posted it on signs outside the co-op and marched with it on banners in parades. But, this invitation to shop and share in our cooperative is such a tiny piece of the larger work that we must do to become a co-op that truly represents the individuals and needs within our community.

Making progress on our Ends Policy of being ‘a thriving consumer-owned cooperative in our region,’ means we aim to serve the whole regional community, not one niche or sector. And, as we look to expand, it is increasingly vital that we make changes to foster inclusion.

Historically, we have had a lack of non-white board members, and we recognize that as a serious failure. Gathering around the table with diverse leaders and providing space for new voices to help lead our democratically run business is a must.

Your co-op’s 2018 board elections are approaching, and we need your help. Building a stronger co-op and making connections takes work. Collectively, we are asking you, owners and shoppers, to spread the word of our desire to become a more inclusive board and to invite community members to run for the co-op’s board of directors.

In the upcoming election cycle we will have four positions to fill. Board applications and the full election schedule will be available online and in store on July 6.

We look forward to the enhanced learning and relationship building that this work can bring. Please feel free to reach out to the board at anytime at board@themerc.coop.