Being an artist, it was always my hope when I started Color Kitchen, that I would connect directly with artisan food producers and bakers, as I personally relate to a chefs’ creative expression.
And while the first few years’ focus of Color Kitchen was on retail products, in the last year, I have begun to work more collaboratively with bakeries, ice cream makers, and gourmet doughnut creators, which I couldn’t be happier about. They inspire me and my business.
In light of the events of this last year, I also began to reflect more on what was happening in the baking community in terms of advocacy and how Color Kitchen could participate in or grow awareness around those doing good work.
When the Black Lives Matter protests began an organization sprung up, Bakers Against Racism (@bakersagainstracism), that instantaneously went viral, globally. Bakers everywhere were asking, how can I help?
On June 20th, Bakers Against Racism organized a “bake sale” in which bakers could participate by donating proceeds to the organization of their choosing that supports the BLM movement, or social services addressing inequities due to systemic racism.
Collectively, the 2400 plus participants raised $1.9 M in baked good sales for social justice! An event that took place virtually, through social media, and within weeks.
And Bakers Against Racism has continued to grow with initiatives like the Bake the Vote campaign and BIPOC Baker Highlight, showing us an example of how those in the culinary arts can do their part to work towards equality for all.*
Back in June, I remembered that I had the opportunity to donate product to The Pastry Project in early 2020, when they were launching their pilot program.
The Pastry Project (@thepastryproject) is an amazing organization in Seattle that combats inequities in the pastry profession, providing free baking and pastry training, as well as job placement assistance to individuals that face barriers to education and employment.
They offer subscription Goody Boxes or Pastry Project Kits, through a monthly membership.**
I began to think about all the other food producers I work with, that are also involved in advocacy through their businesses. They are not only innovative in their food creations and healthier choices in their ingredients, but also make food that is better for the world and the communities they live in.
I like to think those two things go hand in hand.
I am proud to be working with these chefs and programs, so decided to launch our Bake A Difference series to celebrate these inspired and talented food producers. I hope that this list continues to grow and we can highlight many more businesses and programs in the culinary arts doing good work.
~Color Kitchen Founder, Ashley Phelps