Fair Trade

Everyone loves a bargain. No doubt on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, many of us were up before the sun to find those great prices only good from 5:00-7:00 AM. In this economy, who isn’t concerned about saving a dollar or two? As Catholics, however, we are cautioned to be concerned and educated consumers, to think beyond the products we purchase to the people and communities that produce them.
We are connected to people across the globe in many different ways, from the clothes we wear to the coffee we drink. As budding global citizens, we are expected to be aware of our connections with the rest of the world, and to take responsibility for the impact of our actions on human communities and the environment. This involves looking beyond the low price to the people behind the product.
In response to unfair trade practices, Fair Trade was born in the middle of the 20th century. What is Fair Trade?
While it may seem counter-cultural for us bargain-hunters, Fair Trade is a practice of paying an equitable price rather than as little as possible for products, with an emphasis on social responsibility. Careful consideration is paid to how business transactions will affect issues in the country of production, including natural resources, cultural traditions, working conditions, worker income and business sustainability.
Fair Trade is in line with Catholic Social Teaching, seeking to empower millions of disadvantaged producers worldwide while protecting the environment for future generations. Fair Trade also empowers U.S. consumers to make a difference in the world simply by adjusting their shopping list. The dramatic growth of Fair Trade products proves that consumers are voting for a better world with their purchases, demanding sustainable, ethically-produced goods.
Certified Fair Trade is a network of growers, artisans, processors, testers, transporters, sellers, and purchasers collaborating to guarantee quality products and a fair wage for all involved in production and marketing.
Who benefits from Fair Trade? All of those people involved in making the item and getting it to market benefit because they all receive a fair wage according to their country’s standard. Others who are interested in becoming Fair Trade growers and artisans also benefit: this is because if you purchase Catholic Relief Services’ Fair Trade items, part of the proceeds are used to help Catholic Relief Services expand participation in Fair Trade. Last but not least, you benefit from Fair Trade because you know that you are purchasing in ways that are fair to all. And that’s a bargain for your soul!