Bloomington farmers' market suspended for two weeks over white nationalist concerns

Hope Schreiber
·Writer
The Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market in Indiana has been suspended for two weeks over growing concerns and tensions between protestors and vendors who are allegedly connected to white nationalist causes and groups. (Photo: City of Bloomington/Facebook)
The Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market in Indiana has been suspended for two weeks over growing concerns and tensions between protestors and vendors who are allegedly connected to white nationalist causes and groups. (Photo: City of Bloomington/Facebook)

The City of Bloomington, Indiana announced on Monday that the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market would be suspended for two weeks over concerns for public safety. In a press release, the city cited a possible connection between a vendor at the farmers market and "white nationalist causes and groups."

Last weekend, an Indiana University professor was arrested at the market for protesting the booth owned by a couple who has alleged ties to the white supremacist group Identity Evropa, according to Indiana Public Media.

The professor, Cara Caddoo, was arrested on misdemeanor charges for allegedly causing a disturbance in front of the vendors, as both protestors and counter-protestors gathered. As a result of the growing conflict, and at the consultation of local police and national experts, the city ultimately decided to suspend the market for two weeks.

“As Mayor, I have spoken for our City to condemn white nationalism and white supremacists as a scourge on our country and our community, and to promise that we will do all we can to overcome their legacies and any current efforts,” Mayor John Hamilton said. “We also want to assure that everyone knows that all are welcome in our inclusive Bloomington, and that our Farmers’ Market will embody those values of inclusion and welcoming, as well as be a safe space for all to gather, as our community expects every Saturday.”

“In light of recommendations from our local public safety officials, advice from national experts, and awareness of recent tragic incidents of violence at similar public gatherings, we are hitting the pause button to protect public safety in Bloomington,” Hamilton went on to say. “We will be gathering with a wide range of local folks to identify how best our community embodies our values of justice and inclusion, and protects our treasure of the Farmers’ Market.”

Mayor Hamilton is expected to hold a press conference regarding the situation on Wednesday.

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