I Love Fair Wage/Fair Trade
The other day I was hanging out with friends when I saw a guy wearing a hat I REALLY liked. You have to understand, I’ve wanted a hat with ear flaps for a long time now. I’ve even looked up a couple easy-looking knitting patterns in hopes of knitting one for myself once I finish the other projects I’ve already started. Anyhow, I commented to my friends, “I REALLY like that guy’s hat!” My one friend responded by me telling me he knows the guy wearing the cool hat and that he could ask him where he got it. Moments later, my friend informed me that he purchased the hat at a local non-profit center for activism in the community (a store I really like) and that it was a Fair Trade product. What a win-win situation!
Well today I went to said store and purchased a hat I LOVE. I’m SO excited about it. I wanted to post a picture of me wearing it on Facebook but I decided not to since I bought similar hats for my sister-in-law and a friend for Christmas. I also bought a pair of Fair Trade gloves made by the same people that made the hats for another friend and a Fair Trade journal for yet another friend that lives in a warmer part of the country. Can you tell I’m really excited about this?
Here’s what the tag in my hat says: “This beautiful handmade accessory was made by artisans in Nepal who receive a fair wage and have good working conditions. Thanks for supporting Fair Trade.”
So could I eventually knit myself the same hat? Yeah, I suppose but not only do I get instant gratification, I’m supporting Fair Trade! Here’s a picture of my beautiful handcrafted hat:
Find out where you can buy Fair Trade products HERE.
Our church sells many fair-trade items in the bookstore, and I think they’re all gorgeous. There’s also a store in Indy that sells only fair-trade goods. I saw this today and thought of you.
I wish I had the guts to give only fair trade gifts this Christmas or donations in the name of the recipient or Kiva gift certificates… but I fear my family wouldn’t understand. As it is, I think we’re going to try not to give “stuff” and instead give one of the things listed above, or “experiences” that won’t take up space or create waste. We’ll see how it goes. Baby steps, right?
joanna said this on November 17, 2008 at 11:41 am |
I understand what you are saying but when it comes down to it, giving presents is about what the other person would like and not what you want them to have. I was reminded of this the other day as I was doing some more shopping. All we can do is hope we can slowly brainwash our friends and family.
anonymouscogitations said this on November 22, 2008 at 3:37 pm |