How many times have you picked up the newspaper or turned on the TV only to read or see an article on grossly under paid labor? Well, World Fair Trade Day is not only here to provide more information on the subject but to fight for change.
The word “fair” can mean a lot of different things to different people. Fair Trade is about more than just paying a fair wage. It means that trading partnerships are based on reciprocal benefits and mutual respect; that prices paid to producers reflect the work they do; that workers have the right to organize; that national health, safety, and wage laws are enforced; and that products are environmentally sustainable and conserve natural resources. CLICK ON IMAGE BELOW FOR VIDEO:
What is a fair wage?
Producers receive a fair wage when they are paid fairly for their products. This means that workers are paid at least that country’s minimum wage. Since the minimum wage is often not enough for basic survival, whenever feasible, workers are paid a living wage, which enables them to cover basic needs, including food, shelter, education and health care for their families. Paying fair wages does not necessarily mean that products cost the consumer more. Fair Trade Organizations bypass exploitative middle-people and work directly with producers.
On this years Fair Trade Day I would like to focus on one US based company that holds true to it’s feelings on the subject. EnviroTextiles manufactures a line of agave products and fabrics sourced in Mexico. The line includes agave scrubbers, wash cloths and exfoliators as well as several beautiful fabrics. In their efforts to support fair trade, workers are paid fairly, they create jobs in impoverished areas and provide funds for community programs such as in school lunches and nutritional education. This line is available at www.MyNaturalPlace.com. By supporting these products you are also supporting 115 families and several community projects that would not be available without you.
So, the next time you decide to purchase anything, please take the time to think about what and who that purchase benefits. With these fabrics and agave products, you are taking yet another step to becoming more natural. You are also having an effect on the lives of others, and remember…”Manual labor has a social aspect, is integral to the success of many diverse cultures and can reduce the carbon footprint of a product”.
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