Yuen Young Joni is gone. Can we stop trying to cancel Ann Kim?

Ann Kim's Young Joni will close this weekend due to a lease dispute, representing her second restaurant closure in just over a year. Previously, her establishment Kim's closed amid a contentious unionization effort, leading to accusations of union busting. Kim has endured public criticism, vandalism, and protests this year, drawing attention from other restaurateurs and local chefs like Andrew Zimmern, who lamented her struggles. The National Labor Relations Board conditionally dismissed claims against Kim’s business, indicating limited merit. Many believe Kim's challenges reflect a double standard faced by women, particularly women of color, in business.

Comparatively, chef Daniel del Prado, who closed his restaurants after unionization votes, continues to thrive. Public protests targeting Kim often misrepresented her menu, showcasing the intensity of the backlash she faces. As she considers her future, questions arise regarding the treatment of female business owners in similar circumstances.