What is Fair Trade

Fair Trade is an economic and social movement that seeks to slightly re-arrange the pay scale by providing a more equitable form of global trade especially to producers in developing countries.  Fair Trade is a way to empower low income communities with a sustainable form of income instead of feeding a cycle of poverty.

Although many view fair trade as a form of charity, it is rather a way to empower low income communities with a sustainable form of income instead of feeding a cycle of poverty by not paying them enough and promoting poor working and living conditions.  The Fair Trade Federation states that fair trade is "a holistic approach to trade and development that aims to alter the ways in which commerce is conducted, so that trade can empower the poorest of the poor." 

Info Brochure about Fair Trade and Where to Buy Fair Trade Clothing

Why FairTrade?

1)  Low wages and poor conditions are a reality for many people working in factories in the developing world.  According to Made By.com, in 1980 over 30% of textiles were produced in developing countries today this number is 70%.  Although this is one way for these countries to enter the global market, many of its citizens only become trapped in a cycle of exploitation.

2)  Fair trade is a way to empower those who may become trapped in this cycle to earn a living wage.

3)  Those using the fair trade model pursue producers in developing countries and low income areas to assist these communities with skills training and business opportunities to encourage their economic growth.