Hamilton’s Democracy on Locke closes after serving coffee for over 12 years

A popular coffee shop on Locke Street in Hamilton will be closing its doors days before Christmas.

The owners of Democracy* on Locke posted a notice over the weekend saying they made the difficult decision to close on Dec. 21.

They say they are deeply grateful for the support the neighbourhood has shown over the years.

The notice goes on to say that the coffee spot has “always been about connection, conversation and community” and that they are, “proud to have been part of the vibrant spirit of Locke Street.”

Democracy had switched their menu to be fully vegetarian back in 2016, boasting a vegan-friendly selection, and has been operating on Locke Street for over a decade — their first social media post was on Sept. 11, 2013.

Earlier this year its employees had unionized and joined The Services Employees International Union.

Diego Mendez, National Communications Coordinator told CHCH News that on Dec. 8 a union representative met with the café owner in a bid to reverse that decision and save the café and good jobs in the community.

“SEIU believes there are solutions to the issues and concerns raised by the owner that could keep the vibrant fixture on Locke Street open, but at the conclusion of the meeting, the Union did not get a commitment from the owner to explore those options,” Mendez said. “SEIU remains open to finding a resolution.”

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