October is Fair Trade Month

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October is associated with a lot of things…Breast Cancer Awareness, Halloween, beautiful foliage, and pumpkin-flavored everything (to name a few). Well, we have something to add–October is Fair Trade Month.

While most people have heard the term fair trade, many don’t really know what it means. The Fair Trade Federation defines it like this:

Fair trade is an approach to business and to development based on dialogue, transparency, and respect that seeks to create greater equity in the international trading system.

Fair trade supports farmers and craftspeople in developing countries who are socially and economically marginalized. These producers often face steep hurdles in finding markets and customers for their goods. (fairtradefederation.org)

So why is fair trade important? The sale of fair trade products directly benefits the farmers and craftspeople who produce them, people who otherwise might not have the means to support themselves. Fair trade products include everything from chocolate and coffee to hand-woven baskets and fine jewelry. By purchasing these items, you’re not just getting high-quality goods, you’re supporting communities in need all over the world.

Because we recognize the significance of making socially conscious purchases, we carry a wide variety of fair trade merchandise across all price points. Take a look at some of our fair trade items highlighted below.
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This beautiful leather purse is handmade by artisan Michael Zigani from Burkina Faso. Mr. Zigani works without the use of his body from the waist down, but that doesn’t stop him from supporting his family with his craft.
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Mariam, a mother and skilled seamstress living in West Africa, creates hand-stitched works of art like this adorable little elephant!
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This Belart necklace makes a statement with bovine horn, a sustainable, eco-friendly product.

Belart is a fair trade company that supports farmers and artisans in Colombia. The bovine horns used came from animals killed for meat. Natives believe that in order to honor the animal, every part must be utilized.
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This carved wooden bowl from Ghana features textured metal details and makes for the perfect decorative accent (with a rich cultural backstory!).

This bowl came from Farafina, a Spanish company specializing in African art and décor. Click here for more information.
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Made from the recycled scraps of old saris, these colorful kantha coin purses are named for the unique embroidery on them. Each one is different, but they’re all beautifully handmade by women in New Delhi, India.
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These lariat-style flower necklaces are made from tagua nuts by El Baul Colombian Treasures.

Originally from Colombia, Mauricio Parra and Patricia Sepulveda founded this company in 2013. They are based in Nashville, TN but employ independent artisans in Colombia to help create these products.
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See something you like? Stop in the Natural Selections Gift Shop to see more items like these!

Buying fair trade goods is the best way to get involved, but you can also show your support with these 10 Easy Ways to Celebrate Fair Trade Month in October from Fair Trade USA.

How will you celebrate Fair Trade Month?
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