Stay Local

Every year national chains come into the city to replace locally-owned businesses. Even if the chain isn't their to replace a local business once they are in town it is possible for them to run the locals out of business. Many of us have our favorite chains that we love, and many of us are also unaware of the wonderful delicacies right here in the community. People throughout the city are losing their sense of community with the loss of local business. This loss of business leaves a social and economic void in the community. The quality of life within the community can change with the lack of resources returning to the people of the community.

National chains receive the approval of town residents with promises of tax revenue, employment opportunities and growth. For instance, WalMart has plans to move into the D.C. area and is trying to win approval from District residents prior to the move. Although these giant chains promise to provide many opportunities for locals most of the rewards and revenue are not given back to the community, but instead are held for profit within the company.

Independent local businesses employ a wide variety of supporting services from the community. This new need for services leads to the growth of opportunities for local accountants, advertising agencies, attorneys and others to help run the up and coming business. Local retailers and distributors usually carry a greater amount of locally made goods than large chains, this can in turn create more jobs for local producers. This illustrates the cycle of local businesses giving back to their community through growth and opportunity.

It is important for independent businesses, consumers and policy makers to grow a sustainable, local economy in Washington DC in order for the entire community to be successful. A great resource for anyone interested is Eat Local First. This is a local food campaign that focuses on local farming, restaurants and organizations that make locally-grown food more accessible in the DC community. On July 1st they will hosting an Edible Garden Tour. Join and you can explore city spaces and residential gardens that will open their doors for the public. This is a great opportunity for the community to experience how local foods are grown and produced within their community. For more information on the event just check out the website. One of our favorite parks, Park at Ledroit will be featured on the tour and you can check out our urban garden plot on site. It is the hope of ourselves and Eat Local First that with these opportunities and resources the community will be better informed and well-versed on how to support their community both socially and economically.

--Krystal