Loretta Spears reflected on her upbringing in Washington, D.C., where a strong sense of community—what she called “the village”—defined her childhood. Neighbors looked out for one another, and if a child misbehaved, someone would quickly step in with a firm, “I know your mama.” Loretta described a time when the entire community would come together to support those in need, especially during illness or loss, with each household contributing food. Summertime meant playing outside after dinner, but by 8 o’clock, every child knew to be on their porch. She recalled how older residents watched over the children, offering guidance with just a few words. Loretta shared a personal story about standing up for herself as a light-skinned Black child facing bullying, and how her mother supported her right to self-defense, while still discouraging violence. She expressed a longing for the values of mutual care, accountability, and “tough love” to return, emphasizing how vital they are for today’s youth and community well-being.
“When I was coming up we always had to have dinner at 5 o’clock. Home, homework finished, and if you didn’t have time to finish your homework you couldn’t have dessert until you finished your homework. Butt better be on the porch or in the house.”
How does food connect you with your community?
“When I was growing up, the ladies cooked dinner everyday, shopped Friday and cooked all weekend. If anyone was sick they made sure those people ate. And if people couldn’t get out someone would go to the store for them. Everyone was taken care of, it was always a community thing. Even though we had corner stores we would go far for the big stores and we would all make sure people were taken care of.”