Ollin Cafetzin, a Mesoamerican-inspired cafe and ethnic studies library, has opened its doors in Aurora, CO, on East Colfax Ave. The cafe is founded on three principles: cafetzin (coffee), conexión (connection), and educación (education). Owners Jasón Romero and Cynthia Moreno-Romero aim to create a welcoming space for the community, where people can connect, learn, and enjoy traditional coffeehouse beverages and Mesoamerican-inspired drinks.

Community Focus

The cafe has a cozy atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows, natural wood, and potted plants. The ethnic studies library is located in the back room, providing a quiet space for reading and learning. Ollin Cafetzin also hosts various community events, including storytime, culturally relevant games, and arts and crafts projects for children.

Romero and Moreno-Romero have implemented a system where community members can donate money to provide coffee for those who cannot afford it. The cafe also offers a children’s library and a safe zone for everyone, regardless of immigration status. The staff undergoes rapid response training to prepare for any immigration enforcement activity, and the cafe hosts free trainings for Aurora residents on laws that protect and impact migrants.

Indigenous Roots

Moreno-Romero’s background is rooted in her Indigenous heritage, and she has made it her mission to learn and embody more of the Nahuatl language. The cafe’s name, Ollin Cafetzin, translates to ‘Movement Coffee’ in Nahuatl, reflecting the owners’ commitment to their cultural roots. The cafe serves sustainably sourced coffee from Indigenous collectives in Latin America, and the owners are teaching Nahuatl to their daughter.

Original reporting: Denverite — read the source article.