LaDonna Sanders Redmond
Cooperative Development Consultant, she/they/iya
My motivation to run for the Seward Co-op Board of Directors is rooted in a deep belief that cooperatives are essential to building a more just, democratic, and sustainable economy. As a long-time owner of Seward Co-op, I view the board as a powerful platform to steward the co-op’s mission, uphold cooperative principles, and ensure that our values are reflected in governance and daily operations.
Professionally, I support cooperatives and community-based businesses through intercultural organizational development practices. This work enables me to assist organizations in navigating cultural differences, shifting power dynamics, and establishing inclusive structures that accurately reflect the communities they serve. My expertise includes equity-focused strategic planning, governance design, and leadership training, all of which I believe are directly relevant to the board’s work.
Collaboration, to me, is not just a process; it is a discipline grounded in mutual respect, transparency, and shared purpose. Effective collaboration means creating conditions where everyone, regardless of background or identity, can contribute meaningfully and be heard. It also means holding each other accountable with compassion and integrity.
To advance equity at Seward Co-op, I would work to ensure that the voices of people of culture communities, workers, and underrepresented owners are centered in board decision-making. I would support policies that remove barriers to ownership and leadership, and that ensure our sourcing, staffing, and community partnerships reflect our shared commitment to justice.
Over the next decade, I envision Seward Co-op continuing to be a vibrant and financially successful grocery store and supportive workplace, while strengthening its national role as a leader in the cooperative grocery sector in a way that promotes racial equity, economic democracy, and ecological responsibility. I believe we can expand our cooperative presence while staying true to our core values: supporting local producers, protecting the environment, and making sure the co-op is accessible and welcoming to everyone.
As a board member, I would bring a systems-level perspective, grounded in experience, community accountability, and a deep commitment to Seward’s Ends: equitable economic relationships, positive environmental impact, and inclusive, socially responsible practices.