Cooperation Gumbo

Cooperation Gumbo is a collaboration between residents, cooperators, and artists to uplift the histories and ongoing presence of Black and Indigenous cooperation in New Orleans.

Gumbo is deepening our knowledge and practice of indigenized forms of research such as story circles, one-on-on listening practices, and walking tours. Our research centers the legacy of cooperative practice in New Orleans, and the ways in which Black and Indigenous New Orleanians continue to meet their own needs through collective care within our homes, neighborhoods, hustles, marketplaces, and cultural events. As we continue to investigate a decolonized approach to documenting and archiving these stories, Gumbo intends to creatively share out these experiences to inform the solidarity economy movement, impact policy change, and remember the pathway to a cooperative future. Our membership is open and fluid, and we welcome the partnership of artists, residents, and historians interested in supporting this research.

gumbo@coopnola.org

These short films were captured at a story circle hosted by Gumbo in partnership with Grow Dat On the Go in October of 2024 at the Progressive Baptist Church in Central City. Following the tradition of the Free Southern Theater, members of Gumbo were trained by narrative artist Timeless to facilitate story circles. Community members reflected back on times in which we felt held by the strength and organization of our communities.