My first career oriented job after college was at a local Black bookstore in Chicago. I was blessed to come up through the ranks and publish two books with the help of Frontline Books. The history of this place is immense. For starters, it is one of almost less than a handful of Black bookstores left in the city of Chicago; where there used to be dozens. Not only that, but the current location at 5206 S Harper St. has undergone several incarnations of Black bookstores over the years- all with different names but essentially the same flavor. You know, a spot where one finds Metu Neter, Ivan Van Sertima, John Henrik Clarke, Isis Papers etc... and will try to special order any book under the sun.
Recently, the area surrounding the bookstore has undergone some lightweight gentrification and the construction has cut off the majority of foot traffic for this Hyde Park gem. Here, check this out:
Several weeks later, there is a new sign and update on the situation:
I promote this place not only because it is the one stop shop for banging incense, food for thought, Ting, awesome jewelery, African flags and clothes but also because it represents a Black-owned business standing firm in the face of community redevelopment. Yes, I capitalize Black. The struggle to exist and compete with other ethnicities has been an issue in our communities throughout history and Frontline Distribution is a sterling example of self determination in the 21st century.
For more info call 773 288 7718.
Recently, the area surrounding the bookstore has undergone some lightweight gentrification and the construction has cut off the majority of foot traffic for this Hyde Park gem. Here, check this out:
Several weeks later, there is a new sign and update on the situation:
I promote this place not only because it is the one stop shop for banging incense, food for thought, Ting, awesome jewelery, African flags and clothes but also because it represents a Black-owned business standing firm in the face of community redevelopment. Yes, I capitalize Black. The struggle to exist and compete with other ethnicities has been an issue in our communities throughout history and Frontline Distribution is a sterling example of self determination in the 21st century.
For more info call 773 288 7718.
