LISTEN TO EPISODE HERE
Essay from Anastasia
2020 has been a heavy year.
One of the most difficult things for many of us to cope with has been the longing — for familiar routines, for friends and family, for travel. The age of COVID-19 has also been a generative and regenerative time for many of us, in its own way.
I cannot help but find it ironic that it has been during this time that I have strengthened some of the most precious connections I have, despite the social and physical distance. One of those connections is with my Auntie Solange (spoiler: ‘auntie’ in the Black sense), and so it is a pleasure to be able to share her warmth and wisdom with you here, as we talk about longing turning into belonging in a community. My visits to her restaurant have become more frequent now that routines have shifted, and I imagine that other people could benefit from the restorative comfort I find there.
Maquis Yasolo is an Afro-Québécoise restaurant located in the St. Henri neighbourhood of Montreal, owned by Auntie Solange and Uncle Alain, and attached to Yasolo’s épicerie. The space is adorned with dried flowers and potted palms, hanging artwork from local Black artists, and a beautiful mural dedicated to Black ancestors who strove for our liberation.
In this brief and candid conversation, Auntie shares with us the inspiration behind Maquis Yasolo, a space she has created, which has become like home to me. As it turns out, being drawn to the restaurant was not by accident, but by her design; hearing Auntie Solange’s story reminds all of us in the Black Diaspora that we are family and that it is up to us to remember as much. It is also up to us to keep our family connected, well-nourished, document these stories, pass them on, and cherish them.To inspire ourselves and each other not only through food but also through actions taken with the express purpose of drawing us together. This conversation hopes to remind us that our aunties have a place for us, no matter where we are or how far from home we may be. No matter if you can get to your maquis in 2020 or not.
So...come with me, and let’s go to Maquis Yasolo! The palm trees are waiting out front, the wine has been poured, and Auntie’s expecting us. ♥️
About Anastasia Erickson:
Anastasia (she/ her) was born in Chicago and has been a guest in Tiótia'ke since transferring to Concordia for her BFA. Under the guidance of Dr. Heather Igloliorte, she is continuing her research through pursuit of a Master’s thesis in Art History, wherein her work will aim to critically and lovingly examine the intersections between Afro and Indigenous futurisms.
While studying, Anastasia maintains her position as a research assistant at The Initiative for Indigenous Futures and Aboriginal Territories in Cyberspace, where she gets the chance to investigate new ways of advocating for youth of color, and for our future descendants. She is a former intern of Montreal’s Museum of Fine Arts.
About Maqui Yasolo (FR):
Nouveau restaurant afro-québécois au coeur de Saint-Henri à Montréal. Laissez-vous surprendre par les saveurs de la cuisine africaine et de toute sa diversité culinaire.
Follow Maquis Yasolo on Instagram @maquisyasolo
See their Facebook page
