A Closer Look at Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo has become synonymous with festivities and delicious Mexican cuisine (and who doesn’t love both of those things?). At the Ashland Food Co-op, it's important for us to approach this celebration mindfully and with a cultural understanding. We use these opportunities to educate ourselves, and share what we learn with our community.

Let’s start with a very brief history lesson. On May 5, 1862, in the city of Puebla, Mexico, an outnumbered and outgunned Mexican army achieved a remarkable victory against French forces in the Battle of Puebla. While not a decisive turning point in the overall conflict, this triumph symbolized Mexican resilience and unity in the face of foreign aggression. Cinco de Mayo commemorates this historic battle, serving as a testament to Mexican courage and determination.

Here are a few ways we can celebrate mindfully in a way that honors history, and the Mexican culture:

  • Take the time to learn about the history and significance of Cinco de Mayo.
  • Support local Mexican-owned businesses, restaurants, and artisans.
  • Host a traditional Mexican meal with authentic recipes and ingredients.
  • Engage in educational activities, such as reading books or watching documentaries about Mexican heritage.

As we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, let's do so with respect, joy, and a commitment to cultural understanding. We can honor the true significance of the holiday by embracing Mexican culture in a thoughtful manner, and  create meaningful and inclusive celebrations that everyone can enjoy.

More Co-op News

May Day Community Block Party

Photography by Chelsea Whitney Art

On May 1st, several Southern Oregon businesses came together for a block party to provide a space to gather as a community after a rough spell due to the pandemic and fires. The May Day Block Party was hosted on Main St in Phoenix, where the scent of food trucks mingled with artisan goods such as local cheeses, locally farmed flowers, and even fresh-baked pastries.

A Visit with Rolling Hills

Visit Rolling Hills Farm and learn more about owner Dave Belzberg, who the Ashland Food Co-op is so honored to partner with for more than thirty five years.

A Visit with Magnolia Farms

 

 

 

Visit Magnolia Farms and learn more about owner Elissa Thau, who the Ashland Food Co-op is so honored to partner with for more than twenty years.

A Visit with Emerald Hills

Visit the Emerald Hills Ranch and learn more about this fourth generation ranching family that the Ashland Food Co-op is so proud to partner with for more than twenty years.

A Conversation with Katie Falkenberg, Photographer and Filmmaker

Katie Falkenberg's photography and filmmaking has taken her all over the world, and lucky for us - she's been calling the Rogue Valley home for a couple years now. Exquisitely and harmoniously capturing the world around her, she is documenting not only through the lens but also through her peaceful and loving spirit. Katie reached out to us in hopes of collaborating after falling in love with the co-op soon after moving here.

January Change for Good Recipient: Rogue Valley Mentoring

Since 2005, Rogue Valley Mentoring (formerly the Rose Circle Mentoring Network) has trained over 500 adults who have mentored over 2,000 youth in our valley; letting young people know that they are not alone. A caring and compassionate ear shows them that they matter, and they they are experts of their own experience.

Rogue Valley Mentoring Circle

Shopping Safely & Efficiently

 

As coronavirus cases increase in Jackson County, the Co-op is taking extra precautions to protect shoppers and employees. 

To ensure social distancing in the store, the number of persons allowed in the store at once has been reduced to 50% capacity. Understandably, this may lead to a short wait outside of the store, but please be assured the line moves quickly.

In order to keep the wait as short as possible, here are a few steps you can take to help out: