After a swell of public support and fundraising, a community storefront in South Shore may still close after the building’s landlord finalizes a sale to a South Side-based nonprofit supporting veterans.Mama Africa’s Marketplace, 2100 E. 71st St., has since 2021 sold African cultural products from vendors, primarily on consignment, and acts as a community space. But due to significant property tax hikes, the building’s landlord sought to sell the property, prompting a community effort to prevent the “displacement” of marketplace owner Lakiesha Williams.The location, in the 71st Street business corridor, has been the subject of conversation in recent years, being about 2 miles from the Obama Presidential Center, slated to open in June.The $800 million center has caused concern for nearby residents, potentially leading to higher property taxes and rents, and resulting in gentrification.The marketplace offers a youth employment program and various events like food giveaways. An estimated 300 organizations have used the 4,000-square-foot space, Williams said.“It’s just been a home to those who don’t have a home,” Williams said. “We try to make it easier for folks who want to serve the community to have a space to serve the community without worrying about finances.”Williams, 43, came to the space in 2021 without a business plan, she said. The mother of four intended to use the space to create a clothing line, largely from fabrics purchased during a monthlong trip to Africa.A friend connected her with John Lewis, the building’s owner. He offered Williams the space for $700 a…
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