As a lifelong River Valley Co-op member, I’ve learned that democracy is as essential to our community’s well-being as the food we buy. But my recent board candidacy experience revealed we might need to restock our commitment to this ideal.

Advocating for ethical sourcing and sustainable supply chains, I faced unexpected hurdles. The nominations committee initially rejected my application, citing a “conflict of interest” between human rights and fiduciary duty. This reasoning suggests that prioritizing human rights compromises the co-op’s financial interests — a stance contradicting our core values and ethical business principles.

Determined, I pursued a petition. Despite unclear deadlines and being asked to leave while gathering signatures outside the co-op, I collected over 118 signatures — more than double the requirement — demonstrating strong support.

Why should this matter as you’re grocery shopping?

Member control: We’re owners, not just customers. Our voices should shape the co-op’s direction.

Transparency: We should expect clarity in governance, as in food labeling.

Ethics: Human rights and financial responsibility should align in a community co-op.

Community Impact: Our co-op’s decisions affect our local economy and environment.

To keep democracy in stock, we must engage in co-op governance, support candidates prioritizing transparency and ethics, and advocate for fair processes. Remember, each purchase at River Valley Co-op is a vote for the community we want. Let’s keep democracy on our shopping list.

Henry Morgan

Lifelong member-owner and River Valley Co-op board candidate, Florence