State-Funded Minneapolis Food Pantry Sparks Criticism for Serving ‘Black and Indigenous Folx’ Only

What started as an effort to address hunger in north Minneapolis has ignited controversy.

Mykela “Keiko” Jackson used a Paths to Black Health Grant from the state of Minnesota to launch the Food Trap Project Bodega—a free food pantry aimed at serving underserved residents located on the property of Sanctuary Covenant Church.

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According to the state’s website, the grant program is designed to reduce health disparities among African Americans and foster a “vibrant and thriving” community.

But now, some say it’s doing the opposite.

Reports emerged that non-black residents were being turned away from the pantry, raising concerns about racial discrimination in a neighborhood where many diverse groups reside.

Sign sparks allegations of exclusion

At the heart of the backlash was a sign posted on the pantry that read:

“The resources found in here are intended for Black & Indigenous Folx. Please refrain from taking anything if you’re not.”

For some, like Howard Dotson, this message was a slap in the face.

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Dotson, who is also white, claims he was personally turned away from the pantry by Jackson.

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According to Dotson, Jackson reiterated that the food pantry was established to service black and Indigenous people, and that he could go across the street to get resources from the church’s free pantry if he needed it.

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