In response to Dr. Goodman-Bowling’s blog on fair trade labor practices, and the reason we should care about how the products we buy are made, this is a working list of some of our favorite places to shop, as suggested by CBU faculty, students, and community. Please feel free to add to the list in your comments below. Many of these are Corporation B Certified (e.g., guarantee of fair wages), and all focus on dignified treatment. Some also may focus on offsetting the environmental impact of our production. We hope you will find this list useful as you look to make choices that are more in line with your convictions about the importance of treating people of all kinds with dignity and respect.
Noonday Collection: Sells necklaces, bracelets, earrings, bags, and scarves, etc. Supports job opportunities, the empowerment of women, the livelihood of children, and values connections between producers and consumers.
Jennings and Allen: Sells: jewelry, soapstone carvings, scarves, hand-sewn purses, etc. Support many important causes including women empowerment and rebuilding communities that have fallen victim to famine, war, and other injustices.
Fair Trade Styles from Mainstream Companies: Offers information on many companies that support ethical consumerism
Redemption Market: Provides a list of fair trade businesses; online purchase available.
Jesus’ Economy: Sells holiday items, jewelry, accessories, bags, wallets, purses, dining, clothing, kids & baby items, journals, etc. Fair trade goods in order to reduce poverty around the world; has a vision to help reduce poverty by helping the poor to build business.