The Bakers Against Racism Virtual Bake Sale raised $1.3 million and counting organizations supporting Black lives! I’m so proud of everyone who was a part of this. Let’s make sure this isn’t just a moment in time and keep the movement going!
I can’t say thank you enough to everyone who supported Bakers Against Racism by purchasing a Crinkle Cookie Variety Box. All funds from your orders went to Black Lives Matter Chicago and Brave Space Alliance to help them in their work for the Black community. Each organization received a donation of $522.50 for a total of $1045!
There is still much to be done in the fight for equality and dismantling systemic racism; one bake sale isn’t going to resolve these serious issues. However, I am hopeful for the future because of what I’ve seen from not just my fellow bakers, but from so many around the world. More and more people are realizing the importance of speaking out against the unjust treatment of Black people in the U.S. and reflecting on how they/we can be better allies to marginalized people.
I truly hope this bake sale becomes an annual event worldwide, but I think it’s especially important that everyone commit to working toward justice and equality for all people everyday. Part of that work requires listening to Black people and learning from them. Those of us who aren’t Black need to examine and acknowledge our privileges. As a Filipina/Asian American, yes, I have been called a “chink,” referred to as “China doll,” mocked because someone assumed I couldn’t speak English, and told to “Go back to China.” But I have come to realize that I have benefitted from some privilege in my life and haven’t done enough to be a genuine ally to those who are being oppressed.
Thank you to chefs Paola Velez, Willa Lou Pelini, and Rob Rubba for organizing this event and inspiring and encouraging all of us bakers to utilize our skills and our desserts to fight anti-Blackness. I plan on collaborating with other local pastry chefs to keep this movement going, so be on the lookout for more bake sales in the Chicagoland area to benefit organizations that support Black lives.
