Fair Trade is a global movement to make sure small farmers in developing countries can compete and thrive in the global economy. When you buy Fair Trade certified products in the U.S. (or Fair Trade certified products elsewhere in the world), you can be confident that the farmers who grew the Fair Trade ingredients received a fair price for their harvest. In return, Fair Trade farmers agree to use more environmentally sound farming practices, implement fair working standards, and invest in their communities. Fair Trade is a great model that's helping to ensure that the global economy is serving people, not the other way around (benjerry.com). However, no matter how endless the reasons are as to why we should support the Fair Trade Movement, we are all broke college students at the end of the day. But GOOD NEWS! There is still a lot we can be doing in order to be a megaphone for justice.
1. Be a conscious consumer.
Fair Trade products range from coffee to clothing and everything in between. It's a myth that Fair Trade products are much more costly and hard to find than unethically made goods. In fact, reasonably priced grocers like ALDI carry Fair Trade certified products. As far as clothing and other commodities, shop locally. Just look for the stamp!
With this, it is equally important to refrain from buying from unethical corporations. Nike, H&M, and Walmart are just some of the large corporations with the most unethical business practices.
2. Educate yourself.
Whether it's looking up quotes on Pinterest or reading scholarly articles on how Fair Trade impacts the economy, by enlightening yourself on this injustice, you will become more prepared to take the proper action needed in order to fix it.
3. Raise awareness.
College campuses hold the most important and receptive audience. If students are geared with knowledge, change will follow. An excellent example of this is Loyola University, Chicago. From the food in the cafeteria, to the soap dispensers, and the items sold in the bookstore, this campus proves it is possible to serve thousands of people while being Fair Trade-friendly.
Be Fair Trade. Support social, economic, and environmental development, not forced and child labor. It is not a charity, it's an investment.
