Dusty Knuckle bakery faces gentrification graffiti accusations

A bakery in east London called Dusty Knuckle has faced criticism after vandals targeted it with graffiti. The graffiti accused the bakery of contributing to gentrification in the Haringey area. Dusty Knuckle is well-known for both its artisan breads and its efforts to help at-risk young people. Max Tobias, one of the bakery's co-founders, was saddened by the graffiti message. He noted that while they could handle the "bad bread" remark, being labeled as "gentrifiers" is a more complex issue. Tobias acknowledged that starting a successful bakery had inadvertently changed the community, making it harder for some locals to afford housing. Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver voiced his support for Dusty Knuckle. He emphasized the positive impact the bakery has on young people's lives, giving them skills and a chance for a better future. Oliver pointed out that there is a fine line between helping a community and causing gentrification. A former trainee named Billy shared his experience with Dusty Knuckle, highlighting how it offered him a job after his release from prison. He criticized the graffiti, suggesting that the writers misunderstood the bakery's mission to support the community. Paul Burnham, from a local housing group, said that the issue of gentrification should not solely blame businesses like Dusty Knuckle. He argued that high housing costs and lack of affordable homes are the real problems driving locals out. Dusty Knuckle employs around 120 people, focusing on individuals who have faced challenges like imprisonment or being care leavers. Tobias, inspired by his past experiences, aims to create a positive environment where young people can learn skills and gain work experience. While the graffiti has made Tobias reconsider where to open future bakeries, he believes having diverse businesses in neighborhoods is important. He questioned whether local discussions about housing and business include the voices of those living in economically challenged communities.