In a remarkable turn of events, former employees of Cambridge’s beloved coffee shop, Darwin’s Ltd., have triumphantly returned to the scene, taking over one of the venues that once housed their former workplace. The recently opened Circus Cooperative Cafe at 31 Putnam Avenue marks both the culmination of a long-fought battle for workplace autonomy and the dawn of a new era for the dedicated staff members.
Darwin’s Ltd. had abruptly shuttered its doors at the end of 2017 amid a heated conflict between management and its employees over greater workplace autonomy and labor rights. The closure had left the community in shock, but it also ignited a determination among the coffee shop’s former staff to make their voices heard and create a workplace where they had greater control.
On September 12 of this year, just shy of nine months since Darwin’s last cup of coffee was served, the four former employees, who had been at the forefront of the union talks that led to the coffee shop’s closure, realized their dream of establishing a worker cooperative. Circus Cooperative Cafe is the result of their unwavering dedication to creating a space that embodies their values and provides a welcoming environment for patrons.
The cafe not only serves as a testament to the resilience of the former Darwin’s staff but also as an embodiment of the principles of worker empowerment and shared ownership. Employees at Circus Cooperative Cafe have a say in decision-making processes, and profits are shared among the workers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
The opening of Circus Cooperative Cafe has been met with enthusiasm and support from the Cambridge community. Patrons have flocked to the new establishment, not only to enjoy its coffee and pastries but also to show solidarity with the former Darwin’s Ltd. employees who have fought tirelessly to realize their vision of a worker-owned coffee shop.
The transformation from the closure of Darwin’s Ltd. to the birth of Circus Cooperative Cafe underscores the power of collective action and determination. It serves as an inspiring example of individuals taking control of their own destinies and creating a workplace that aligns with their values and aspirations. As Circus Cooperative Cafe becomes a cherished part of the Cambridge coffee scene, it also stands as a testament to the strength of community support and the enduring spirit of those who believe in the power of cooperation.
