He’s Had That Store for Years

Abstract

In this chapter, Community Market emerges as a hopeful symbol of racial progress and self-reliance. Placed within the historical and contemporary contexts outlined in the previous two chapters, this chapter examines the paradox of residents exhibiting pride in the store while at the same time not shopping there on a regular basis. It also explores the role the second generation owner, Mr. Jones, plays in the community at large, making the argument that the position of authority that many residents claim he has is in part due to the longevity of the store, even in the face of impending gentrification.