Before we go back to posting cookie pictures, I want to be very very clear about something- Strictly Cookies firmly believes in and supports the Black Lives Matter movement that is going on in the US and abroad.

I’ve been confused about how to address all of this because we are a company founded and based in China, and I’ve been trying to figure out how we can have an impact despite our geography. But I realized this is not the time to craft the perfect corporate response- it’s time to act- and so let’s just get moving and stop overthinking how imperfect our statements are. 

I’m going to be trying out a few different things over the coming weeks, months, and years, and I enthusiastically welcome your input. I’m going to start by having ongoing conversations with my staff about what is going on in the US, why it is so urgent and important, and why we need to be fighting for a solution every day, even from China. I’m going to share with them as I learn more from the amazing books, documentaries, and articles that have been recommended to me about how we got here, and what the reality actually is. I think a lot of negative Black stereotypes that originated in the US have been exported to China, and it’s our role as Americans in China to actively combat this.

I am still outside of Shanghai (#COVIDtravelrestrictions...), so I will be highlighting US based Black owned bakeries every week because my body is such that I need a steady stream of delicious baked goods at all times. I had Jake's Cookies earlier this week, and I can say they are exceptional- order them you will love them. Please also send me any recommendations you have and we can feast together. 

To our American friends and customers in China right now: this is huge, and I know you feel it despite being so far away. I’ve been in Shanghai since 2010, and so the Black Lives Matters movement began while I was out of the US. I know it feels very bizarre to watch your country go through this- it feels like you're on the sidelines and can’t really do anything to help. But we absolutely can and must. The Shanghai community is amazing- we all know this- and we absolutely will make a difference. I’m not entirely sure how, yet, but message me and let’s figure it out together. 

If there were ever a time for 加油, it would be now. Love you all and stay tuned for more. #blacklivesmatter