Absent Narratives: Minneapolis’ Mercado Central

Discover the unique history of the Mercado Central, a Latino retail business cooperative on Minneapolis’ East Lake Street, through a series of brief videos featuring individuals who were active in its development.

Context about the development of Mercado Central is provided in this brief introduction.

Franklin Curbelo, Julie Ingebretsen, Juan Linares, and Deacon Carlos Valdez recall what the intersection of Lake Street and Bloomington was like in the years prior to the development of Mercado Central.

Julie Ingebretsen, Juan Linares, Salvador Miranda, and Deacon Carlos Valdez discuss the circumstances and activities that led to the development of Mercado Central

Franklin Curbelo, Manuel Gonzalez, Juan Linares, Salvador Miranda, Deacon Carlos Valdez, Aracely Zagal, and Miguel Zagal talk about the early days of Mercado Central and some of the current businesses.

Franklin Curbelo, Manny Gonzalez, Julie Ingebretsen, Juan Linares, Salvador Miranda, Deacon Carlos Valdez, Miguel Zagal, and Azucena Zagal reflect on the impact that Mercado Central has had on the community.

Franklin Curbelo, Juan Linares, Salvador Miranda, and Deacon Carlos Valdez share their thoughts and hopes about the future of Mercado Central.