A New Co-op Principle for a Growing Community
Since 1973, the Moscow Food Co-op has been owned by thousands of neighbors who support local farmers and producers, champion sustainability, and make healthy natural foods available to all. As we've grown, we've realized the Co-op is more than just a place to shop, eat, and gather. It has become a beacon of acceptance of all people in our community. No matter who you are, you’re welcome through these doors.
The Cooperative Principles That Guide Us
The Moscow Food Co-op is guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles adopted by the International Co-operative Alliance in 1995. These principles are rooted in cooperation, shared ownership, and care for people and place:
Voluntary & Open Membership
Democratic Member Control
Members’ Economic Participation
Autonomy & Independence
Education, Training & Information
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Concern for Community
Why Add an Eighth Principle?
As our Co-op and community continue to evolve, your Board of Directors believes it is time to more clearly affirm a value that has long been lived within our walls.
We are proposing an amendment to our bylaws with the adoption of an Eighth Cooperative Principle:
Social Equality: Cooperatives create an inclusive environment where they promote diversity, equity, and justice for all.
This principle recognizes and strengthens the culture our Co-op is known for — one of acceptance, respect, and belonging. It affirms our commitment to ensuring that everyone feels seen, valued, and welcomed.
Read the draft bylaw amendment and addition of the 8th Principle in its entirety below:
These bylaws are subject to all applicable state and federal law (including without limitation Title 30, Chapter 30 of the Idaho Code, referred to herein as the Idaho Nonprofit Corporation Act); and to the Articles of Incorporation of the Moscow Food Co-op. Moscow Food Co-op shall be guided in its operation by the seven cooperative principles adopted by the 1995 General Assembly of the International Co-operative Alliance and Moscow Food Co-op's own additional eighth principle, namely: (1) voluntary and open membership; (2) democratic member control; (3) member economic participation; (4) autonomy and independence; (5) education, training, and information; (6) cooperation among cooperatives; (7) concern for community; and (8) Social Equality: Cooperatives create an inclusive environment where they promote diversity, equity, and justice for all.
We believe that our community has shared values that appreciate the culture our Co-op has fostered and is known for. We encourage every Co-op owner to participate in voting for adoption of the 8th principle in March on the Board election ballot.
The 2026 election period begins 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 3 and ends at 8:30 p.m. (PT) Monday, March 16
Please note, ballots to vote in the Board of Directors election and on the addition of the 8th Principle will be made available to current owners. Ballots will be automatically sent via email if you have an email address on file with us. An email address is not required to cast your ballot. Instructions will be shared March 3, 2026 on how to access the ballot through our website.
Stop by the store to ask any cashier or give us a call at (208) 882-8537 to ensure your ownership is current through March 3, 2026.
Questions about the 8th Principle? Email the Board at board@moscowfood.coop.