By Kiko Dametra
It can be a tricky world for women these days. As a result, many seek comfortable and safe environments where they can find support, enjoy promoting gender equity and social justice, and engage in discussions about women’s issues. While lots of male chauvinists have long believed that “a woman’s place is in the kitchen,” many women have strived to make meaningful changes in that room and wielded incredible power.
Cafes in America have a rich history of providing a venue for challenging these notions, allowing women to meet others and discuss revolutions, activism, and feminism in a safe space. Others found love in these spaces, forming enduring relationships that also contributed to the establishment of safe community centres.
While most renowned feminist cafes in the 1970s and early 1980s, like Mother Courage, have closed down, some have survived the test of time, and new ones have opened up. Here is a list of renowned feminist cafes you can try in the USA.
Bloodroot
New Haven, Connecticut, is home to Bloodroot, established by Selma Miriam and Noel Furie. It opened its doors in 1977, in the middle of the feminist movement’s second wave of activism. One of the first vegetarian restaurants and the last surviving example of the ’70s and ’80s wave of feminist restaurateurs, it offers a safe space where women can come together, share ideas, read feminist literature, and enjoy vegan cuisine.
Even today, it brings together women and men from all backgrounds who are deeply interested in women’s rights, social justice, feminist values, and environmental sustainability. Bloodroot’s offerings uphold a commitment to environmentally friendly ingredients, making it one of the most celebrated vegetarian restaurants in the US. Both locals and visitors alike frequently visit to taste its delicious vegan food and interact in a friendly community space.
Bluestockings Cooperative
Bluestockings Cooperative bookstore and cafe on Manhattan’s Lower East Side is integral to New York’s activist scene. It provides a safe and conducive environment for people to meet and relax while enjoying ethically brewed coffee, tea, and Fairtrade snacks.
The centre hosts events, workshops, and discussions on feminism, activism, and social justice. Access radical literature and educational events that will ignite your activist spirit. You can join the social change movement through the interactive programmes provided, which will help empower you to think critically and address ongoing contemporary issues.
Café Con Libros
Located in Brooklyn, New York, Café con Libros is a welcoming space where women’s and feminist literature is promoted through a wide selection of books from its bookstore. While browsing its books, enjoy coffee, tea, and light snacks made from ethically sourced ingredients that reflect its commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability.
The bookstore has customised its selection to include feminist literature, queer writers, women of colour, and other unheard voices in society. You can join the Café con Libros programme, which is brimming with events promoting local artists, workshops, and discussions offering a platform for free expression and book clubs. Pop in for a splendid time at the cosy café and explore a thoughtfully curated bookstore that promotes feminist principles.
La Morada
Famous for its authentic Mexican cuisine, La Morada has become popular among locals in New York City and beyond for other reasons. The Oaxacan food celebrates its rich cultural roots since its establishment in 2009. However, the restaurant is committed to activism and social justice support among immigrants. Its mission is to amplify the voices of undocumented immigrants and advocate for their rights.
The café hosts various community events, including exhibitions, cultural exchange workshops, and book readings. Despite many challenges, arrests, and intimidations, the café and its owners have continued to fight for social justice and reforms in the heart of the South Bronx. It offers safe and friendly business spaces, receiving many awards and accolades in the US despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Seat At The Table
A Seat at the Table Bookstore and Cafe, located in Elk Grove, California, is a cosy and inclusive community hub that offers a curated selection of books and a delightful cafe experience. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the bookstore features a diverse range of titles to cater to all interests, from bestsellers to local authors.
The cafe serves a variety of delicious beverages and snacks, making it a perfect spot for reading, studying, or socialising. Emphasising inclusivity and community, A Seat at the Table often hosts events such as book clubs, author readings, and community gatherings, fostering a vibrant local literary scene.
If you believe activism is crucial today and wish to advocate for social justice or feminism, these five cafés offer a perfect space to connect them with food, drinks, and knowledge.
Stop by these cafes and immerse yourself in compelling literature, education, and activities promoting social inclusion while enjoying a feel-good meal or snack.