Oral history interview with Alex Bruks

Alex Bruks, co-owner of Bruks International Market, spoke about the origin and history of Bruks International Market, which opened in 1990; the products, including imported grocery items from Africa and the Caribbean, sold in the market; demographics of his customers; how the store came to be located in Takoma Park, Maryland; his employees; and future plans. Bruks also spoke about the town where he was born and his school experience in Ghana; his extensive work experience in the agriculture, poultry, and meat industries; his migration to the United States in 1975; his higher education experience in Indiana and Ohio; his family; his decision to become a United States citizen; Ghanaian government policies; the African and Caribbean communities in Washington, DC; and festivities or ceremonies when introducing newly born child to the community, including the food served, and Ashanti cultural dances and clothing. Alex Bruks was interviewed by Peggy Fleming and Grace Taylor at Bruks International Market in Takoma Park, Maryland on May 28, 1993. Interview is in English; Bruks spoke briefly to a customer in Ashanti. Digital audio files include white noise and static, and background noise throughout entire interview. Interviewee's voice is intelligible for the most part.