This is a guest opinion

Javelin missiles, “To Kill A Mockingbird,” and Conecuh Sausage are not just three of Alabama’s greatest exports, but symbols of Alabama woven into the very fabric of the Black Belt. When I drive down I-65, south of Montgomery, and pass by Priester’s Pecan Company and Bates House of Turkey, I’m reminded of this region’s charm and identity. But the recent announcement of Conecuh Sausage’s move from Evergreen to Andalusia is a stark reminder that even our beloved institutions are not immune to the forces of economic change and modernization.

The Conecuh Sausage brand, founded in this region in 1947, is an iconic pillar for our community. The news that the company is relocating its operations due to updated USDA regulations that necessitate upgrades at the Evergreen plant strikes a chord within many of us. As Plant Manager Martin Dahlke noted, the new $58 million facility in Andalusia will be twice as large and aims to meet growing market demand, but what about the impact on Evergreen? This decision is not just about a change of address; it represents a tangible loss of economic activity, local jobs, and community pride.

Persistently high poverty rates in the Black Belt amplify the emotional and economic disconnect many feel with this news. According to a recent report, 19 of the 24 Black Belt counties remain in what’s termed “persistent poverty,” with systemic barriers affecting wealth accumulation that date back to the days of Jim Crow. The region’s average poverty rate stands at 24%, significantly higher than the statewide average of 15%. The loss of Conecuh Sausage adds another layer to the existing struggle for economic viability in the Black Belt.

This situation resonates particularly when considering the larger picture. The report demonstrates the need for targeted, holistic approaches to tackle persistent poverty. Investing in local businesses, enhancing workforce development programs, and creating sustainable economic initiatives should be our foremost priority. The community deserves to keep its icons intact while fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation.

The importance of businesses like Conecuh Sausage stretches beyond jobs; they carry with them a sense of identity and belonging. As President John Crum Sessions and his son expressed plans to create a gift shop akin to the one at the Evergreen facility, they clearly recognize the brand’s emotional connection with its patrons. Yet, there’s a dissonance in celebrating growth while acknowledging the loss of community institutions with sentimental value.

We should not just mourn this move but respond with action. Local governmental agencies and community organizations must come together to develop strategies that reinforce existing businesses and attract new enterprises in our small towns. Governor Ivey has set a great example since entering office, investing in this underdeveloped region and, as a Wilcox County native, understanding that the Black Belt’s identity must be fiercely safeguarded, even as we adapt to changing economic landscapes.

As we digest this news, let us remember that the struggle against persistent poverty in the Black Belt is not merely a statistical reality; it is the story of real lives, families, and dreams. By bolstering our local economy and investing in our people, we can retain the soul of our community while pursuing a prosperous future. Instead of pushing an iconic brand away from its roots, let’s rally together to ensure that Conecuh Sausage—and others like it—continues to thrive right here in the Black Belt.

Garrett Till is a research assistant at the Education Policy Center at the University of Alabama working on his PhD in Political Science. He is from Greenville, Alabama.