Following a tumultuous spring and early summer, the Midtown Global Market on East Lake Street marked its grand reopening on Saturday morning.
Businesses at the Midtown Global Market took a direct hit from COVID-19 restrictions imposed by Governor Tim Walz, specifically regarding dinging indoors. Perils increased during the unrest that followed George Floyd's killing at 38th and Chicago. Several businesses inside Midtown Global Market were ransacked and others had windows smashed. In early June, Midtown Global Market announced they terminated the lease of its largest tenant, Holy Land Grocery, Butcher Shop, & Deli, after old social media posts with racial slurs resurfaced.
"Reopening took a combination of community support along with the determination of small businesses," said Midtown Global Market director Earlsworth "Baba" Letang. "Some of the business owners have been through difficult times in their lives. They know what it is to persist and look for the calm after the storm. That kind of support, spirit, and belief from the community gives us the energy to move forward."
A GoFundMe fundraiser continues for businesses at Midtown Global Market. So far, the fundraiser has amassed over $155,000 of its $250,000 goal. Over 30 of the market's 40 international shops featuring food, drink, services, and shopping were part of the 10 a.m. opening.
"We are working on the hours and businesses will have different hours, but the main market is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. everyday except Sunday, when it's open 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.," Letang said.
Midtown Global Market is requiring face masks be worn inside and will provide a face mask for anyone who doesn't bring one.
