By Omari Salisbury

It was with mixed emotions I found myself standing amidst the remnants of another beloved Black-owned business, Jackson's Catfish Corner, as they closed their doors for the last time last Friday after 40 years in business. The weight of that loss still hung heavy in the air when I received a call from Marie Kidhe, delivering news that didn’t make things much better: La Familia Sports Bar in Des Moines was shutting down for good on Sunday.

These days, it feels like Marie, and I talk far too often about the closing of Black businesses across the region for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes, it is the new minimum wage hike, operating costs, reduction in foot traffic, and other times, the owners are retiring and closing. Each closure is a blow to the community and a stark reminder of the systemic challenges that small business owners face. Determined to document this moment, I reached out to photographer Marvin Patterson, and together, we made our way to La Familia on its final night.

A Hub of Community and Culture

Stepping into La Familia was like stepping into a family reunion. The air buzzed with energy, laughter, and soulful music that had the steppers stepping on the dancefloor. The aroma of delicious food wafted from the kitchen, and I couldn't resist ordering some lemon pepper honey hot wings – a decision my taste buds wholeheartedly approved of.

Though the atmosphere was upbeat, there was an underlying current of sadness. Patrons and staff alike expressed their sorrow at the loss of this cherished gathering place. For three and a half years, La Familia had been more than just a sports bar; it was a cornerstone for community members in Des Moines and adjacent cities, a place where people from all walks of life could come together to enjoy good food, good company, and good times.

A Labor of Love

I had the privilege of sitting down with two of the four owners, Frank Gittens and John Hart. They recounted the journey of transforming the space from a "dive bar" into the vibrant establishment it had become. Their passion and dedication were evident as they spoke about the countless hours and resources they had poured into La Familia.

"We put our literally blood, sweat and tears in this, in this establishment," John shared, his voice thick with emotion. Frank echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the pride they felt in creating a space that resonated with the community.

A Welcoming Space for All

La Familia's success was rooted in its commitment to fostering a sense of belonging. "When people...walk in the door, they might not know what to expect, but when they leave, their notions are all good," Frank explained. "They love the vibe, that we know their name eventually, and that they're part of the family."

John emphasized that the name La Familia was intentional, reflecting their desire to create a space where everyone felt like family. This commitment extended beyond the walls of the bar. Frank and John spoke passionately about their efforts to support the local homeless population, offering food, water, and even day work.

A Difficult Goodbye

The decision to close La Familia was not made lightly, but ultimately, issues with the building's owner forced their hand. "The things it's going to take to keep this building habitable to stay compliant with the health department, the owners of the building are not willing to put their money into it to make it happen," John explained. According to John, over the past 3 years, they have put a considerable amount of money into fixing structural issues with the building with no real support from the building owner.

As the night wound down and the reality of La Familia's closure settled in, Frank and John took a moment to express their gratitude to the community that had supported them. John Hart, ever the optimist, thanked both his supporters and his detractors, stating, "The ones who didn't support us, I still thank them too, because that's what makes us rigid." He acknowledged that the naysayers "make you really good," pushing him to work harder and become sharper.

Frank Gittens expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to pursue their dreams and build a business that resonated with the community. He emphasized the importance of community and the people who had become a part of La Familia's story. "I'm just glad to be here, man," Frank said. "I'm glad to that I had opportunities for our dreams to come true, and like I said, it's just all about the community and the people." He expressed gratitude for the lessons learned and the relationships built, leaving the door open for whatever may come next.

A Legacy Lives On

As the final hours ticked away, it was clear that La Familia's legacy would endure, especially with those who intentionally visited over the last few days to hear that warm hello or watch the Hawks one last time. The relationships forged, the memories created, and the community fostered within those walls would not be forgotten.

While this chapter may be ending, I have no doubt that Frank Gittens and John Hart will continue to make their mark on the community. Their entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to community exemplify the strength of Black entrepreneurship.

As I walked out of La Familia for the last time, I couldn't help but feel a mix of sadness and hope. Sadness for losing a beloved community hub, but hope for the future that Frank and John will undoubtedly create. My mixed emotions remain.