Maya-Camille Broussard, Owner of Justice of the Pies
How did you launch Justice of the Pies?
I initially launched Justice of the Pies as a part of Accion’s (a nonprofit micro-lending organization) curated Kickstarter page featuring small businesses in Chicago. I spent the first year participating in various markets and art fairs throughout Chicago. In my second year, I was doing pop-ups in cities I visited. I also got placement in Whole Foods Market and had a successful run at the Daley Plaza Farmers Market.
What is it about pies that hold a special place in people’s hearts?
When I talk to customers about their love of pies, they almost always reference their grandmother, mother, or some element of their childhood. Pies are in a category that I like to call “nostalgic eating.” Pie is comforting—like a cashmere throw wrapped around your shoulders when it’s 20 below outside.
Who has inspired you, professionally and personally?
My dear friend Claudia Gordon—she is the first Black deaf attorney to graduate from law school and works for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Federal Contract Compliance Program. She’s not only served as a perfect example of navigating adulthood as a person living with a disability, but she has also taught me how to be more assertive about what I will and won’t accept from people who interact with me differently because of my disability.