The bakery uses drug references for the name of some cookies and to sell them and associates that with hip-hop.
INDIANAPOLIS — Jon Howe is a member of the local hip-hop community and is concerned about a new cookie business called the Cookie Plug which just opened on Mass. Ave.
Howe and some other Hoosiers believe the bakery uses drug references to sell cookies and associates that with hip-hop. They said it’s not only offensive but also appropriating and misusing Black culture.
“I think it speaks volumes when Indianapolis is united against something because it’s so offensive and disrespectful,” Howe said.
Howe and Feeray Phillips are two of the many people who shared their thoughts online.
“I don’t have a problem with people having fun. I don’t have an issue with cookies. That’s not a problem. The problem is when it’s presented the incorrect way. The problem is when it’s mocking our culture and when they don’t know anything about our culture besides some songs,” Phillips said.
Along with a variety of cookie, lemonade labeled on the menu as “purple drank” is served in baby bottles or double-stacked cups.
The business’ Facebook page also shows cookie boxes that say “Thank you for supporting your neighborhood doughp dealer.”
“Not do we think if Black culture and hop hop culture is synonymous with drugs the problem is he thinks that because he only branded with words that black culture and hip hop culture created,” Phillips said.
The founder of the Cookie Plug, Erik Martinez, said they have locations across the country and he’s no stranger to controversy. He said is goal is quite the opposite of creating controversy, it’s bringing people together.
“Everything about Cookie Plug is about helping the culture and the community move forward. Do we have some fun with the names? Sure, but other than that I don’t see the drug culture. If you walk in the store and see the graffiti on the wall we tie in local elements and the only names are maybe purple haze,” Martinez said.
The owner of the Indy location, Doreen Walters, said she’s not trying to glorify drugs, but instead it’s the opposite. She says she loves hip-hop and loves cookies.
“I’ve never done drugs in my life and I’m not going to influence others to do it,” Walters said.
“I would say instead of taking what you see online, you should come and see for yourself,” Martinez said.
The shop is located on Mass Ave. near East Walnut Street.
