As part of our efforts to further support restaurateurs, chefs and entrepreneurs in the black community, we’ll be dedicating our content this week to a series that seeks to amplify their voices in a meaningful way, while donating to important charities that further the cause.

Our series begins with Justin Tisdall, Co-Owner of Vancouver’s Juke Fried Chicken and Beetbox and one of the original 23 restaurateurs and hospitality industry veterans who came together in solidarity to help launch Breaking Bread almost three months ago. Some of Justin’s favourite black-owned businesses in the Greater Vancouver area include Calabash, Kula Kitchen, Dank Mart, D Roti Shak and the Patty Shop.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela.

To that end, we will hit pause on our social media feeds today to educate ourselves and engage in discussions surrounding oppression, injustice, systemic racism and bigotry, and what we can do to effect lasting and meaningful change in our own lives and our community at large.

We also pledge to continue providing a platform and a showcase for the incredible work done by black restaurateurs, chefs and entrepreneurs not only across this country but around the world.

Breaking Bread was born of a genuine desire to bring people to the table, break bread together and find meaningful ways to support one another in the midst of a pandemic.

Like many, we have watched the events and unrest that has unfolded as people across the US and Canada confront racism, inequality, violence and systemic injustice. And while we have struggled to find the right words, as our friends @toreats said in a recent post: “We must speak out and use our voices for action, to make a change, and to save lives.”

We stand in solidarity with you. We mourn with you. We recognize that we are only stronger for any struggle when we listen to and support one another and work together to find common ground.