Fair Trade the White House

Doug Stephan Five-Away

2009-12-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

The Doug Stephan Radio Show is holding a two week fair trade product five-away contest! Enter to win by adding yourself as a Facebook friend. Items range from a $100.00 gift certificate from Indigenous Designs which offers eco-chic fair trade and organic fashion; a Fair Trade Sports deluxe Eco-certified football; a Be Sweet cuddly bamboo baby knit cap; a luscious chocolate and green tea basket from Equal Exchange; Anti-Body’s Nutcracker Sweet moisturizing lip balm set; decadent dark chocolate bars from Alter Eco; a gift basket featuring Ugandan dark roast from Thanksgiving Coffee; and a ingeniously retooled wallet made from recycled tires from One World Projects.

Contest runs through Dec. 18th!

Delicious Living

2009-11-30T17:28:00.000-08:00

Delicious Living blogged about the Fair Trade Holiday Gift Guide! Take a look and then take some time to read other entries about 'Real Food, Natural Health and Green Planet'.

Gift Guide on Planet Green

2009-11-17T11:15:00.000-08:00

Vote for our Fair Trade Holiday Gift Guide on Planet Green (at bottom of article)!

Thanks for the post, Planet Green!

DC Fair Trade Network & Coffee Tasting

2009-11-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

Announcing an event within the DC Fair Trade Network!

Event: Fair Trade Coffee Tasting: EverGreen Home Coffee

Date/Time: November 22, 2009 11:00 AM

Venue: Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe
8519 Fenton Street Silver Spring, MD 20910
301.608.2200

EVENT CONTACT: Sonia Bunch, Director of Sales and Marketing, The EverGreen Home, 301-312-2407, TheEverGreenHome@aol.com

Come learn how to roast your own coffee beans in a popcorn popper and other units. Taste the wildly delicious high altitude shade grown organic blends by The EverGreen Home. Learn why Fair Trade is the best choice and why we only promote coffee sold in recycled steel. Join the discussion, meet new friends, and have a great time. Purchase a can of The EverGreen Home coffee at Giant Foods and bring your receipt for the coffee drawing. You may win a case of amazing shade grown coffee.

About The Evergreen™ Home
Our family has been eating organically and supporting sustainable agriculture for years. However, when our niece needed a new mattress in 2006, we discovered that harmful chemicals are often used in the manufacturing of mattresses. We wanted dust mite resistant and chemical free bedding for our niece, and the organic bedding industry was our only option. Now, organic bedding is what we provide for our entire family — and yours... Read more.

Learn more about DC Fair Trade Network.

Treehugger

2009-11-14T22:56:00.000-08:00

Treehugger posted our Fair Trade Gift Guide! Thanks, Treehugger!

Canaan Fair Trade on Facebook

2009-11-08T18:47:00.001-08:00

Canaan Fair Trade has a new Facebook page! Become a fan and learn more about their fair trade olive oil (and other delicacies) from Palestine. Let's get their fan base up to thousands in no time to help support the laborers who provide us with our quality oil!

Green America's Fair Trade Coordinator

2009-11-06T14:13:00.000-08:00

Meet Green America's new fair trade coordinator, Elizabeth O'Connell!!

I joined Green America about two weeks ago as the new Fair Trade Coordinator, and I am very excited about it! I am originally from Rochester NY, but I actually grew up in Hong Kong and Switzerland. My interest in fairer labor conditions probably started when visiting a Chinese brick factory on a 7th grade trip, where the dust was so thick it was difficult to breathe and see. However, it was not until college that I got involved in the fair trade movement. As a member of the entrepreneurial club at NYU, I was a founder of the school’s first fair trade café, an endeavor that was a ton of fun and a huge success! I also interned at Social Accountability international for a semester. After finishing college, I taught English in Cambodia for five months, and then worked in New York City, doing fundraising for a Cambodian children’s hospital.

At Green America I will be working on our fair trade programs and campaigns, including the fair trade pavilions at the Green Festivals and the Fair Trade Alliance newsletter. I will also be working on planning the Fair Trade Futures Conference.

Find out more about Elizabeth's adventures in fair trade at her blogspot.

Fair Trade Holiday Gift Guide

2009-11-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

The Fair Trade Holiday Gift Guide is here! With over 80 different fair options, you'll find plenty of stocking stuffers and Holiday presents for all ages. Find the guide at Fair Trade the White House!

GoodWeave Raffle

2009-11-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

GoodWeave™ Program to End Child Labor Announces 8th Annual Rug Raffle

Rugmark USA has just launched its eighth annual rug raffle, offering entrants, for as little as $25, the chance to win a luxurious handmade rug, designed and donated by New York-basedcWarp & Weft and certified child-labor-free by GoodWeave. Proceeds help support RugMark’s GoodWeave certification program, which works to end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and to offer educational opportunities to children in South Asia.

The 8’ x 10’ rug being raffled, Riviera Caramel, has a retail value of $10,800 and is currently available for viewing at Warp & Weft's DC studio, located in the Washington Design Center.

Riviera Caramel is part of Warp & Weft’s Modern & Custom Collection, designed by owner Michael Mandapati. Hand woven in Nepal and made from pure Tibetan wool and Indian mulberry silk, the design echoes differing images from nature, from topographical maps to tree bark. As GoodWeave’s newest industry partner, Mandapati realizes the difference companies working together can make. “With strong child labor laws and with the help of GoodWeave we can make a difference by making it difficult and unprofitable for the practice to continue,” he said.

Every ticket sold helps bring GoodWeave and its nearly 70 importer/designer members one step closer to ending child labor in the handmade rug industry. Raffle tickets are $25 each, 5 for $100 or 12 for $200. The drawing will take place on December 16, 2009, and the winner will be notified the following day. Individuals may purchase tickets here.

About GoodWeave

The GoodWeave certification program works to end exploitative child labor in the South Asian carpet industry by inspecting weaving looms and providing rehabilitation and education for former child weavers. To date, the GoodWeave program has rescued more than 3,600 children from exploitation on carpet looms and offered them rehabilitation, education, vocational training, and other services. The GoodWeave label is your best assurance that no child labor was used in the manufacture of a carpet or rug. For more information, visit www.GoodWeave.org.

Organice Wine Trade Company

2009-10-30T12:29:00.001-07:00

Day 30!

Today's sponsor for Fair Trade Month is FTWH supporter, Organic Wine Trade Company! See how, by sipping a glass of wine, you contribute the the growth and sustainability of others! Click here to read more.

2010 Fair Trade Calendar

2009-10-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

This just in from the Fair Trade Resource Network!

In time for the holiday gift season, the Fair Trade 2010 Calendar is now reaching retail outlets and customers. Winners of the first FT Photo Competition, along with every photo entry from FT activists, businesses, and enthusiasts, can be seen in the first FT Calendar, produced by Fair Trade Federation and Fair Trade Resource Network.

The 2010 Fair Trade Calendar features beautiful images of FT celebrations, crafts, college events, commodities, producer groups, retail stores, wholesalers and more. Facts, figures, action plans, and a list of FT businesses also fill the 24 pages. Consistent with FT values, the calendar was designed by a worker-owned cooperative, and printed by a green, union print shop.

This historic publication retails for $14.95. Bulk rates are also available. Buy single or bulk copies.

Canaan Fair Trade In The Washington Post

2009-10-21T17:55:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade the White House supporter, Canaan Fair Trade, made the news yesterday for their quality olive oil they sell to sustain 1,200 farmers through The Palestine Fair Trade Association.

The West Bank's gold

A Palestinian cooperative looks to trade olive oil for foreign cash

Palestinian farmer Mur'eb Kaileh, 70, with bags of olives that will eventually be processed for oil at a facility on the outskirts of Ramallah. (Muhammed Muheisen/associated Press)

By Howard Schneider

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

For centuries, olive harvesting here has been a mostly local industry.

Farmers, their relatives and neighbors beat the trees with sticks or strip the olives from branches by hand, then cart them to a local press and sell or trade the oil in nearby markets. Harvest workers keep a share of the crop for their labor, and olive press owners keep a share of the oil -- a testament to the small-scale, bartered nature of the undertaking.

That model can help sustain a household, but in a new factory on the outskirts of this northern West Bank village, an effort is underway to reshape the olive industry so it can help sustain a wider Palestinian economy...

Read the rest.

Fair Trade Cities Campaign, Seattle

2009-10-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade Cities Campaign Kickoff Meeting! Wednesday, October 21, 7pm – 9pm
Cafe Allegro 4214 University Way NE, Seattle
(206) 633-3030

Come join us to learn more about fair trade and how you can get involved in the Seattle campaign!

We are currently in need of members for the steering committee and welcome help for any of the following areas:

- legal advice to secure 501(c)3 status - website design and hosting - marketing - local business engagement - public awareness and recruitment - faith-based outreach - street team and social networking - event planning

Please feel free to contact us at: seattlefairtradecity@gmail.com

Busboys and Poets

2009-10-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

EVENT: Busboys and Poets Fair Trade Night – Movie, Mini Spa, FREE Chocolate and MORE!

DATE/TIME: Monday, 19 October, 2009 6:00 PM

VENUE: Busboys and Poets @ 5th & K Streets
1025 5th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202-789-2227

You’re invited to Fair Trade Night!

VENUE: Global Exchange Shop at Busboys and Poets 5th & K Streets location

Join the Global Exchange Fair Trade Store to celebrate Fair Trade Month!

Treat yourself to a night of FREE Fair Trade treats, including:

a screening of Burning Heart Production’s “The Fair Trade:” the story of c0-founders of Anti-Body Fair Trade cosmetics and how they came to dedicate their lives to Fair Trade
a mini spa lunch of our new line of Anti-Body beauty products, including lotions, bath fizzers and MORE! Test their fabulous scents – it’s Fair Trade!
a book signing by Jackie DeCarlo, author of Fair Trade: A Beginner’s Guide, and learn how you can help “Fair Trade the White House“
and (last but NOT least) a divine-ly delicious chocolate tasting with Divine Chocolate! -It’s positively decadent!!!

ABOUT GLOBAL EXCHANGE

Global Exchange is an international human rights organization dedicated to promoting economic, political and social justice. Our Fair Trade program offers alternatives to sweatshop production by working with artisans and farmer cooperatives worldwide.

More about this calendar event:
http://www.meetup.com/DCFairTradeNet/calendar/11622262/

Funk Aid for Africa

2009-10-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, SAVE THE DATE...FRIDAY OCTOBER 16TH, 2009

Fair Trade the White House supporter, The Rhythm Section + NextAid + DubSpot
Present :: A "Funk Aid for Africa" CD release party

With DJs

OBaH (Dubspot/Giant Step/NYC)
J-Boogie (OM Records/SF)
Frank(e) (Rhythm Section)
Glenn Red (Afro Funké)
Jeremy Sole (Afro Funké | KCRW | Musaics)

With Live Bands

PLEASUREMAKER
(San Francisco)

SIMPLE CITIZENS
(Los Angeles)

Dakota Live Music Lounge
1026 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica CA 90401
21+
$12 cover | $20 cover + Funk Aid For Africa CD

Check out the just released Funk Aid for Africa, produced by dubSpot, compiled & mixed by Dj OBaH. 100% of the sale of the CD goes to NextAid.

Lotus Foods, Volcano Rice

2009-10-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Just in time to celebrate Fair Trade Awareness Month, Lotus Foods is proud to introduce to the US market the first rice to satisfy the stringent fair trade, social and environmental standards required to be certified by IMO as Fair for Life Social & Fair Trade Certified — Volcano Rice from the mineral-rich volcanic soils of West Java, Indonesia.

Volcano Rice is a colorful blend of nutrient-dense brown and red rice. Reputed to restore vitality due to its high mineral and fiber content, the Javanese favor this healthy rice for its satisfying wholesome flavor. Grown on small family farmer cooperatives in the Tasikmalaya region of West Java.

High in magnesium, manganese, zinc
Cooks in only 30 minutes

Pick up your bag today and find several delicious recipes!

Globalfest, Chicago

2009-10-12T23:47:00.000-07:00

Buy your tickets to Chicago Fair Trade's Globalfest benefit event and celebrate their "Asian Themed Night" to honor their fair trade Asian partners! Food, drinks, fair trade fashion show, and silent auction! Oct 28th! Don't miss it! Get your tickets at Brown Paper Tickets and visit chicagofairtrade.org for more info

Anti-Body, Ten Thousand Villages and Fair Trade Month

2009-10-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade Month was celebrated in style today at Pasadena's Ten Thousand Villages! Honoring TransFair USA's Day 11 of Fair Trade, Ten Thousand Village's new location and Anti-Body's new Fairy Trade Lotions, many gathered to dance, color, face-paint and purchase fair trade items in support of cooperatives around the world.

See Anti-Body's photos of fun!

Do anything special for Fair Trade Month in October? Share with us so we can share with everyone else!

Write tamara@anti-body.com

100 And Going Strong!

2009-10-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

In addition to thousands of Individual signatures inviting First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade Her Home, Fair Trade the White House just hit 100 Vendors, Retailers and Organizations!

Collectively, FTWH supports over 56,000 artisans and accounts for nearly 4 billion dollars in annual sales.

Let's keep the numbers coming!

YDT and Puresa Organics

2009-10-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

Want a fashionable bag with a little something more to it?...okay, a lot more to it? Today, Your Daily Thread posted a review on top model Giselle Meza's Puresa Organics line.

Puresa Organics: Buy a Bag, Change a Life

October 7, 2009 Written by Your Daily Thread Team

Reusable cloth bags have become a popular method of reducing the use and waste of plastic but for many conscientious shoppers, style remains as important as function. Puresa Organics solves both issues, creating earth friendly bags that have individual flair, but they take “responsible” to another level by adding an important humanitarian element — every bag is handmade by women in Nepal who have been rescued from human trafficking...

Read the rest here and sign up for YDT emails!

Craft Village

2009-10-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

What do Kenya and The Simpsons have in common? Craft Village!

Craft Village Promotes Simpsons Statues to Help Kenyan Village

Article By Paul Young, Guest Writer On October - 5 - 2009

Craft Village UK, an organization coordinating and promoting fair trade directly with artisans in poor countries, is currently marketing a series of Simpsons Statues to benefit a Kenyan village. Craft Village’s mission is to improve the working and living conditions of crafts people and their families, and promote fair wages and job creation via their exclusive, sustainable, copyright protected product lines.

Craft Village launched the Kenyan Simpsons Statues in February 2009 after 3 years of development. Their unique mix of Fair Trade and animation-art has received great reviews from CNN, The BBC, The United Nations Development Programme, Sir Bob Geldof, and Matt Groening, creator of the Simpsons.

For more on the partnership of Craft Village and The Simposons, read the rest of the article here and click on the video below to see Craft Village, Carving a Future Pt. 1.

Craft Village UK. Carving a Future part 1

Jones GABA on Got2BeGreen

2009-10-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

Got2BeGreen posted a product review from Shelby Moser on Fair Trade the White House supporter, Jones GABA and their Fuji Apple Tea-Juice.

When it comes to beverages, I tend to be a purist, craving only water, black tea or red wine for my drinking needs. The latest heat- wave, however, found me looking around in my fridge for anything cool to give me respite from the 100+ degree weather. I tentatively grabbed the can of Jones GABA Fuji Apple Tea-Juice that had been sitting in the refrigerator, neglected because it wasn’t one of my three favorite beverages. I had been meaning to try it - all in the name of fair trade - but the last thing I wanted was a sugary chemical drink with mystery ingredients a mile long. Even though I admittedly had to look up the name of my drink (Gamma Aminio) Butyric Acid, or GABA , helps to increase the production of brain waves and strengthen focus and clarity), I was comfortable with words like “natural,” “tea” and “apple.”....

Read the rest of this review (and others!!) at Got2BeGreen and see how GABA can help you! And visit Jones GABA for other tasty flavors.

Fair Fabric

2009-10-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

Silk with a soul? That's right! At least silk from Fair Fabric does. Fair Fabric works with co-operatives and non-profit organizations to find markets for quality, fairly traded silk fabric and products. They are committed to providing sustainable employment for economically disadvantaged women, breaking the cycle of poverty so many women are trapped in today.

Take a look at their beautiful scarves and wraps, sheets and bedding and tableware.

Meet the women Fair Fabric sustains.

OCTOBER: Fair Trade Awareness Month

2009-10-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

It's finally here... Happy Fair Trade Awareness Month!!

For great ideas, resourceful information and fair trade news from around the world, check out Fair Trade the White House supporter, Fair Trade Resource Network.

And from all of us at FTWH, here's to having the the fairest months of them all!

Eat fair, drink fair, wear fair, be fair.

Robin's Chocolate Sauce

2009-09-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

Ever feel the urge to eat dessert before dinner? Well Robin's Chocolate Sauce just made it tougher to ignore the urge. Made with fair trade and organic ingredients, this delicious delicacy will have you coming back for more.

Robin’s Chocolate Sauce is more than a delicious dessert topping. It’s a resource for the education, awareness and advocacy of the issues concerning communities and the environment both locally and globally. We hope that with every spoonful of our sauce, you’ll know that together we’re making a difference.

Here's a delectable idea taken from Robin's Chocolate Sauce Recipes:

“Best Bangor Brownies”
Makes about 16 squares.
1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate 2 eggs 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract	1⁄4 teaspoon salt 1⁄8 teaspoon black pepper 1⁄2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8- or 9-inch square or 11-by-7 inch baking pan with butter. 2. Melt the butter and chocolate in a heavy, medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until both are almost melted. Remove from the heat and stir until melting is complete. 3. Whisk the eggs with the sugar, vanilla, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well-blended but not foamy. Gradually whisk in the melted chocolate mixture. Stir in the nuts, if desired. Sprinkle the flour over the top and whisk gently just until no white specks remain. Pour into the prepared pan, leveling the top. 4. Bake until a tester inserted about two-thirds of the way to the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool the brownies in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Cut into 16 or more squares and cool completely before serving. Store in the refrigerator for a day or so, or freeze for up to 2 weeks. Microwave Robin’s Raspberry Chocolate Sauce to desired consistency and serve with these delicious brownies and a scoop of ice cream.
Recipe excerpted from “Dishing Up Maine” by Brooke Dojny Copyright (c) 2006 by Brooke Dojny Used with permission by Storey Publishing LLC www.storey.com Available for purchase from Amazon.com.

Robin's Chocolate Sauce is certified through TransFair USA and is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House. Find a store near you!

Jackie DeCarlo and FT Month

2009-09-28T17:31:00.001-07:00

Jackie DeCarlo has a busy Fair Trade Month ahead! There are two upcoming opportuni ties to hear her speak in the DC area.
You can find her first at the Green Festival, hosted by Green America and Global Exchange, on Sunday, October 11th at 4 pm (check out their website to see all key note speakers, vendors and more). Then, on October 15th, Jackie has the privilege of doing a Fair Trade month event at the Metro Washington GLBT Community Center located near Scott Circle downtown. Hear about fair trade, local activities, Fair Trade the White House campaign and more The event starts at 7 and all are welcome.

Jackie is an experienced traveler, author, speaker and advocate for social justice.

Los Cowboys

2009-09-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Watch how sipping a glass of fine Los Cowboys wine through Organic Wine Trade Company can sustain others!

Fair Trade Month

2009-09-24T17:25:00.000-07:00

There's only a week to go before Fair Trade Month launches! Start looking now for events in your area and for different ways you can have fun while increasing fair trade awareness throughout your community and the world at large - all through the month of October!

Read to find out more about fair trade month.
Become friends on Facebook.
Follow on Twitter.

Happy Birthday, Fair For Life!

2009-09-22T18:26:00.000-07:00

September marks the three year anniversary of fair trade labeling organization Fair For Life! "Fair for life" is a brand neutral third party certification program for social accountability and fair trade in agricultural, manufacturing and trading operations and complements existing fair trade certification systems.

Exactly three years ago, in September 2006, a new Social and Fair Trade Program was launched by the Swiss Bio-Foundation, in cooperation with the Institute for Marketecology (IMO): Fair for Life. It all started with a handful of relatively small but dedicated companies and their supply chains, who set off to establish a fair trade certification program that would work independent of the traditional FLO / Transfair Fairtrade system. This new certification program created an opportunity for all serious fair trade producers and products that had not previously been eligible for fair trade certification.

Fair Trade the White House would like to wish Fair For Life (IMO) a very happy birthday and a big thank you for your support.

Join them on Facebook

Green Earth Journey

2009-09-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

Green Earth Journey gives a shout out to Fair Trade the White House! Take a look and then, while you're there, spend a little time digging through their archives. They provide information on everything from product reviews, fair trade, green living, fun, resourceful tips and much, much more!

Subscribe and Advertise

Thank you, Green Earth Journey!

Ten Thousand Villages in Forbes

2009-09-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Ten Thousand Villages received a glowing review in Forbes over the weekend. Selling everything from unique handicrafts, home decor, kitchen ware and jewelry, all of Ten Thousand Villages items are fairly traded, meaning the artisans earn a sustainable wage for their art and labor. Read how Ten Thousand Villages shops all over the world are growing with the fair trade movement.

Find a location near you.

Ten Thousand Villages of Pasadena is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House. Check them out!

Shift in American Consumerism

2009-09-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

According to FLO, global sales of fair trade products jumped by 47% in 2007. Today, TIME magazine published a great article about a shift in American consumerism. Here's the first paragraph of For American Consumers, A Responsibility Revolution, By Richard Stengel

Thursday, Sep. 10, 2009

Illustration by C.J. Burton for TIME

We have always known that heedless self-interest was bad morals," FDR said in 1937, in the midst of the Great Depression. "We know now that it is bad economics." We learned this all over again after the collapse of Lehman Brothers, the shame of subprime mortgages and the brazen Ponzi scheme of Bernie Madoff. But even amid the Great Recession of 2009, people have been trading in their SUVs for Priuses, buying record amounts of fair-trade coffee and investing in socially responsible funds at higher rates than ever before. What we are discovering now, in the most uncertain economy since FDR's time, is that enlightened self-interest — call it a shared sense of responsibility — is good economics...

Read the article in its entirety and how the First Family already purchases fair trade products!

Burlington, VT

2009-09-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Burlington, VT has been declared an official Fair Trade Town! That makes Burlington the 12th to reach this success (and that number is climbing!). A huge congratulations to all your dedicated, hard work, Burlington! Read more about how they became a Fair Trade Town USA and help further increase fair trade awareness in the U.S. by signing an invitation to First Lady Michelle Obama!

USA vs. Europe

2009-09-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

A blog post on Ethix Merch discussing the prevalence of fair trade in the United States and in Europe hit the web yesterday. Read Daniel Cardozo's take on "Fair Trade: USA vs. Europe". See where and how he suggests to buy, the growing trends of fair trade cotton and help bring greater fair trade awareness by signing the invitation to First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade her Home!

Is the Fair Trade movement doing better in Europe than in the United States?

The question came up during an interesting conversation I had recently with a representative from the UK-based "Bags of Ethics" fair trade tote bag company. She insisted that while it is still difficult to find sweatshop-free and fairly traded merchandise in the United States, the situation is very different in Western Europe, where a wide variety of fair trade certified products are available on the market...

Read the blog entry in its entirety here.

Help Autonomie Win A Grant

2009-09-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Autonomie is reaching out to all their fabulous individual contacts and supporters to ask to help win a small business grant worth $100,000! They have been nominated for the grant from American Express and need as many endorsements of the nomination as possible before SUNDAY in order to move forward into the judging phase.

Support fair trade fashion by registering and nominating Autonomie Project here. And spread the word!

Good luck, Autonomie, from Fair Trade the White House!!

Rishi Tea

2009-09-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Rishi Tea has been at the forefront of Fair Trade Certified tea production for years. Founded on the commitment to set the standard for quality and expand the awareness of tea and its rich, inspirational tradition, they offer superb loose-leaf tea imported directly from tea gardens across Asia, made according to ancient artisan practices using organic cultivation techniques and Fair Trade standards.

Rishi is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House and has included their name to the long list of signatures inviting First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade her Home. Add your name, too!

Check out their homepage for their end of summer discount on iced teas!

Follow their blog and find them on Facebook

Your Daily Thread

2009-09-09T18:28:00.001-07:00

Check out Fair Trade the White House supporter (and media sponsor) Your Daily Thread (YDT) and learn more about the latest in green trends and fair practices. Follow their blog and watch their newly launched YDT TV!

Boston Faith & Justice Network

2009-09-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

Boston Faith & Justice Network is a big component in the endeavor to make Boston an Official Fair Trade Town. Committed to alleviating poverty and promoting just stewardship, they recently became a supporter of Fair Trade the White House and added a blog this weekend on Consumer Stewardship. Click here to read how politics, religion and social justice can work together for positive change!

Labor Day

2009-09-06T23:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day from Fair Trade the White House!

Labor Day was founded in 1894, protecting the rights of U.S. workers from unfair wages, working too many hours and unfair working conditions. That's why we celebrate this special holiday. Unfortunately, many of the issues fought against last century still exist today.

This Labor Day, shop sweat free and ensure the items you purchase are treating others fairly. Find a sweat free and fair shopping list at Sweat Free Communities.

Guayaki & TIME Magazine

2009-09-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade the White House supporter, Guayaki Yerba Mate, received a nice write up in TIME Magazine!

A Tree-Hugging Tea

By Coeli Carr Monday, Sep. 14, 2009

A worker weighs freshly picked shade-grown yerba mate at one of Guayaki's rain-forest-restoration projects in eastern Paraguay. Mate is among the most popular caffeinated drinks in the world.

As a college student in California in the early '90s, Alex Pryor always kept some of his native Argentina with him. His link to home was a beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate (mah-tay) tree that, cup for cup, provides more than half the caffeinated zap of coffee with fewer jitters and an abundance of antioxidants. As more of his college buddies cozied up to the drink, Pryor saw the glimmer of a business. But the lightbulb moment happened in Paraguay in 1995 when he first spotted a yerba mate tree growing in its ideal habitat--in the shade of a rain forest that happened to be owned by his godfather. Pryor struck a deal: if his godfather planted hardwood trees in the rain forest's degraded areas and started growing mate along with them, Pryor would buy the output. The following year, he founded Guayakí with David Karr, a college friend and mate aficionado...

Click here to read the article in its entirety. Congratulations to Guayaki for all your hard work from the FTWH Team!

EQ.TV & Fair Trade

2009-09-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

"...it's not a brand...it's a story."

Watch EQ.TV's 8 minute overview with "Fair Trade: The Story"

World Co-Op

2009-08-31T17:48:00.000-07:00

The mission of World Cooperative is to establish synergistic alliances with a consortium of companies and financial institutions who, through their involvement, will expedite the expansion, stability and longevity of our goals of global distribution and sales of Fair Trade goods, primarily those originating from Eastern Africa.

World Co-Op is a group of artists, scientists and activists whose collective purpose is to cultivate the world's acumen of Fair Trade through the introduction of high quality and creative textile crafts such as re-usable grocery bags made in Rwanda.

All of World Co-Op's products are made with Fair Trade Certified cotton.

Check out their products and learn more about their sustainable company.

World Co-Op is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House

BigTent

2009-08-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

BigTent was born out of co-founders Nicholas Chim and Laney Whitcanack's desire to build a free, easy way for trusted groups to connect online. Laney wanted cheap and easy-to-use software to support The Princess Project, a non-profit she founded to provide free prom dresses to high school girls who can't afford them. Nicholas wanted to help a co-worker more easily access information from her community mothers group.

Seeing an obvious need in the marketplace, Chim and Whitcanack decided to create a new online tool for organizing groups. In early 2006 they founded BigTent, a technology company that provides free, Web-based software to community groups.

Today, BigTent is a venture capital-funded company with a seasoned leadership team and groups in every state in the nation. BigTent helps real-world communities share, communicate, and organize online and in-person by providing intuitive, free group management tools.

BigTent is a supporter of Fair Trade the White House. Using their forum helps us keep organized and informed!

FAIR Vodka Review on Got2BeGreen

2009-08-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

FAIR. Drink Responsibly.

Fair Trade the White House supporter, FAIR Vodka, received a glowing review by Anti-Body Co-Founder, Shelby Moser, on Got2BeGreen. When vodka is distilled five times in a cognac copper pot from a place called “Spirits Valley,” France, you expect there’s going to be something special about your drink. When that bottle of vodka has the FAIR label, you can be certain it’ll exceed your expectations... Intrigued? Click here to read how its made and what makes it the fairer choice when choosing beverages.

To purchase your own fairly traded bottle of Vodka, visit their website!

Jute and Jackfruit

2009-08-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

All right ladies (and men who shop for the ladies in their life), have we got a place to shop for you! Jute and Jackfruit is committed to offering the highest quality, organic, environmentally-friendly and socially conscious clothing, jewelry and handbags available. They are a woman-owned business, devoted to empowering women worldwide. Take a look at all their latest fashions by quality designers.

Jute and Jackfruit is a member of Fair Trade Federation and Green America, and anew supporter of Fair Trade the White House! Link arms with Jute and Jackfruit by signing the invitation to First Lady Michelle Obama to fair trade her home.

Follow Jute and Jackfruit on Facebook & Twitter and read their blog!

5 Fair Trade Principles

2009-08-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade has 5 basic principles:

1. Market Access for Marginalized Producers
2. Sustainable and Equitable Trading Relationships
3. Capacity Building and Empowerment
4. Consumer Awareness Raising and Advocacy
5. Fair Trade as a 'Social Contract'

Go to Fair Trade the White House to learn more about fair trade. Once there, click on "5 Principles" for a case study of each of the 5 listed above.

Case studies are contributed by Fair Trade the White House supporters: Fair For Life, Fair Trade Federation and Trans Fair USA

Lucuma Designs

2009-08-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

With sustainability in mind, fresh ideas and innovative design, Lucuma Designs strives to bring you contemporary crafts and folk art to smile about. By developing opportunities and guiding their artist partners to go beyond the ordinary, Lucuma empowers creative women and family workshops in Peru to help themselves and their community.

Lucuma Designs has been a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation since 1999 and recently became an official supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

Find one of a kind birdhouses, gourd toys, finger puppets and so much more!

Lucuma Desings is a member of Green America and supports Fair Trade Resource Network to learn more about fair trade.

Twitter

2009-08-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade the White House now has a Twitter account! Thanks to Ben Tracy of United Students for Fair Trade, you can keep up on all the goings on with our progress in inviting First Lady Michelle Obama to fair trade her home, along with other key fair trade trivia.

Find us at: http://twitter.com/ftwhitehouse

Kopali Organics

2009-08-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Kopali Organics is a mission-driven company, founded to bring you the most purely delicious, naturally nourishing and healthful food, produced in the most fair, compassionate and sustainable ways possible.

They connect small organic farmers with the growing market of shoppers who care where their food comes from and how it is grown.

Kopali's snacks are always organic, and always...

Good for you. Good for farmers. Good for earth.

Kopali is an official supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

Find them in every Whole Foods Market and on Amazon.com!

Follow them on their Blog, Facebook and Twitter

Fair Trade Boston

2009-08-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade Boston is a grassroots initiative aimed at alleviating global poverty and promoting environmental sustainability by widely increasing the use of Fair Trade products throughout the Greater Boston area. They are also reaching out to the White House to further increase awareness throughout the United States and recently became an official supporter of Fair Trade the White House! Fair Trade Boston’s ultimate goal is help the City of Boston become an official ‘Fair Trade City’ by joining the international ‘Fair Trade Towns’ movement.

Fair Trade Towns USA is an exciting initiative that brings together businesses, community, faith-based organizations, and educational institutions throughout the United States to grow the Fair Trade movement. By achieving special recognition for towns, cities, and communities that promote Fair Trade, the campaign deepens consumer awareness and involvement and expands the Fair Trade market to benefit millions of marginalized farmers and artisans and their families around the world.

Follow Fair Trade Boston's blog & find out how to get involved.

SEN CHA Naturals

2009-08-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Too rushed to make a cup of tea? Is the weather too hot? SEN CHA Naturals has a healthy solution and offers Fair Trade Certified Green Tea Mints & Green Tea Bars. Green Tea's benefits has been applauded for helping both the mind and the body, from preventing cavities to sharpening your mind to providing a high dose of antioxidents. Three of SEN CHA's mints is equal to 1 cup of green tea while one bar is the equivalent of 3 cups of green tea.

Read more about the benefits of Green Tea and find a SEN CHA retailer near you.

SEN CHA Natural's Green Tea is certified by TransFair USA and is an official supporter of Fair Trade the White House. SEN CHA will provide Green Tea Mints for the White House Outreach.

Follow their blog and find them on Facebook.

The Great Urban Race

2009-08-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

“Hi, we’re Jeff and Jessica, siblings who’ve got our heads on crooked according to conventional wisdom. In between watching the Amazing Race, traveling, our normal jobs and school, we strive to fight global poverty. While Jeff recently completed his MBA in marketing and volunteers with the Boston Faith & Justice Network, campaigning for Fair Trade, Jessica has traversed the globe volunteering in places such as Thailand, Bulgaria, and Jamaica and is starting her MPH in Global Health at George Washington University this fall, hoping to specialize in nutrition and hunger.

We ran the Great Urban Race in Boston earlier this year, and we had so much fun that we decided to do it all over again in NYC - this time for a worthy cause. The Great Urban Race is a fast-paced scavenger hunt race, akin to the Amazing Race, which we avidly watch. In Boston, we were given a list of clues at noon, and with only a phone, street map, and ten minutes of Googling to help us figure out the clues (which ranged from “take a picture with a dog” to “solve this cryptogram, and run up Bunker Hill”), we finished a respectable 97th. We’re determined to do better in New York City on August 15.

We invite you to be a part of the good work we are doing. Throughout the day we will be interacting with the public at large, decked out in Autonomie Project apparel. The New York race will take us to the Upper West Side, TriBeCa, and Midtown. We will be shooting tons of photographs and meeting all kinds of interesting people along the way. We’ll also complete challenges and share why we believe it is time for Americans to consider changing the way we consume. Please follow us on Twitter to track our progress, help us with clues, and view live pictures from the New York City leg of the Great Urban Race.

Partnering with Autonomie Project just makes sense. Like us, they’re committed to seeing the eradication of global poverty. Like us, they want fair wages and environmentally- safe products. Like us, they want to save the world – and have fun doing it.”

Autonomie Project is an official member of Fair Trade the White House

Wholesome Sweeteners

2009-08-11T23:29:00.000-07:00

Wholesome Sweeteners offers 8 organic, fair trade sugars to choose from - white, brown, turbinado and more. They are a socially and environmentally responsible company that provides high quality sugars. It's better for you, better for the environment and better for the farmers, who earn a premium a price for their raw goods...what's not to love!

Wholesome Sweeteners is certified by TransFair USA and is an official member of Fair Trade the White House

Subscribe to their Newsletter, join them on Facebook and create delicious recipes
with Wholesome Sweeteners sustainable sugar.

Invitación A Primera Dama Michelle Obama

2009-08-10T21:40:00.000-07:00

¡La invitación a Primera Dama Michelle Obama es en español! Lea aquí y invite a la Primera Dama Michele Obama a que se una al movimiento del comercio justo declarando la casa blanca "un hogar de comercia justo". Puede agregar su firma abajo.

Blue Smoke Coffee

2009-08-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

Coffee with soul? Blue Smoke Coffee sure does! They offer 100% fair trade and shade grown coffees and donate 1% of their proceeds back to the environment through 1% For the Planet. They also give back to various humanitarian groups focused on sustainability and ending poverty. They offer fair trade tea selections and other items as well. Find the perfect coffee blend for you, from mild to bold.

Blue Smoke is certified Fair Trade through TransFair USA and is a proud member of Fair Trade the White House.

Find a list of retail locations.

World of Good

2009-08-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

World of Good, Inc. engages people in changing the world through commerce that alleviates poverty and benefits the environment. To make good choices easy and accessible, World of Good works with wholesale, retail, and online partners to create shopping experiences based on information, trust, and social impact. In each experience, World of Good builds a bridge of economic opportunity for mission-driven producers and their trading partners, and increases consumer understanding by convening information and trust systems.

Check out their selection for home decor, house ware, jewelry, accessories and more on their website.

To learn more about World of Good and fair trade, watch their short and informative video.

World of Good is a member of Fair Trade Federation and sells certified products through TransFair USA. They are also a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House and will provide jewelry for the White House outreach!

Global Fayre News

2009-08-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade the White House supporter, Global Fayre, has fair trade events you'll want to be aware of!

August 7 - First Friday Art Walk - we're continuing the basket theme from last month, this time moving to Botswana, and are thrilled to have a selection of baskets from the ladies of the Etsha Weavers group. In addition, we will be using First Friday to focus on Kiva. We'll have some friends on hand to talk about Kiva, PLUS - $1 for every purchase on the night will be donated to Kiva. We have formed a Global Fayre Kiva Loan Team, and will make a loan every time we hit a $25 donation point. Better still - if you are here, you get to vote where the loan should go!

August 18th - introduction to Fair Trade. Open to all, to be held at Global Fayre, starting at 7pm.

September 4th - First Friday Art Walk / 26.2 miles to Africa. Have you ever seen someone run a marathon on a treadmill? Intrigued? We'll send an e-blast out before hand, but if you want to make sure that you don't miss out, bookmark our blog, become a fan at facebook, or follow us at twitter.

324 S Campbell, right on the corner of Campbell and Walnut in the historic downtown area of Springfield, Missouri

FAIR. Vodka

2009-08-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

Truly “Drinking Responsibly”

When The Fair Trade Spirit’s Company (FTSC) and The National Association of Quinoa Farmers (ANAPQUI), created a partnership in 2009, the label “FAIR. Vodka” was born, introducing the first fair trade certified vodka.

Quinoa, harvested from small farms in Bolivia, is purchased at a fair wage and directly from the local farmers. It is then transported to France where The Fair Trade Spirit’s Company takes great care in producing pristine vodka.

FAIR. Vodka is an official supporter of Fair Trade the White House

Look for FAIR. Vodka’s Fairtrade Organization label on their bottle.

Read more about FAIR. Vodka’s owners and their commitment to fair trade and the environment.

Follow them on Facebook!

The Fair Trader, Chicago

2009-08-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

What do Evelyn Johnson, Madeiria Myrieckes and Cindy Pardo all have in common? Together, they founded The Fair Trader, the first fair trade retailer in Chicago! The Fair Trade offers a color selection of clothing, unique jewelry, natural body-care, handmade papers and a whole lot more.

So if you're looking for a friendly place to shop that offers sweat-free and fairly traded items in Chicago, now you know where to go!

The Fair Trader is a member of Fair Trade Federation, sells Fair Trade Certified products through Trans Fair USA and is a supporting retailer of Fair Trade the White House. You can find them on the web and find their location here.

Interrupcion

2009-08-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

Interrupcion is a stakeholder community that is working to build a sustainable future through responsible consumption, sustainable development, organic farming and fair trade. Named for the concept of interrupting to create a more responsible, healthy and sustainable form of participation in society, Interrupcion seeks to build a model of trade and global interaction between consumers, businesses and producers that positively impacts the social, economic and environmental sustainability of the world.

Interrupcion seeks to build a model of trade and global interaction between consumers, businesses and producers that positively impacts the social, economic and environmental sustainability of the world.

Find f air t rade blueberries, apples, wild honey, avocados, pineapple and more. Meet their Producers, see their full product list and find out where to shop.

Interrupcion is certified by IMO's Fair For Life, a member of Green America and proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

RESPECT Found in CocoEco

2009-08-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

CocoEco Magazine, media sponsor of Fair Trade the White House, recently wrote an article, The NBA's Eco Warrior on LA Lakers' basketball star, Jordan Farmar who is featured holding a Fair Trade Sports basketball! A progressive "greenie" himself, Farmar is using his celebrity influence for a postive change.

Read the article at CocoEco Magazine starting at page 70 in Issue 6. And don't forget to enter yourself in their $600 Fair Trade Give-Away!

Fair Trade Sports is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

Fair Trade, The Basics

2009-07-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

What is Fair Trade?

Comedian John Oliver phrased it rather bluntly and succinctly, "it's about not screwing people." For those of you who prefer a more informative definition, there is one at hand: "Fair Trade is a trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers. Fair Trade Organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning fo changes in the rules and practice of conventioanl international trade."

Still curious? Still confused? It's okay. It can get complicated. But the underlying issue remains the same, fair trade means to provide sustainable wages to the laborers who provide us with our products. Fair trade is the just way of doing business. One day, it'll be the only way of doing business. Until that time, promote as much as you can.

Visit Fair Trade the White House for more information on Fair Trade.

Domestic Fair Trade Association

2009-07-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

While some products can't be grown in Northern America, some are, which is why Domestic Fair Trade Associatio n is helping local U.S. farmers live sustainably as well. Adopting international fair trade standards, DFTA focuses on small, family-run farmers to help provide "Heath, Justice and Sustainability."

Read about DFTA's fair trade values and find a list of committed members, like Fair Trade the White House supporter, Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps!

Domestic Fair Trade Association is also a proud member of Fair Trade the White House. Learn more about DFTA on their website and see how you can get involved and support fair trade on international and local levels. You can also follow their blog!

Zhena's Gypsy Tea

2009-07-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

If you are a lover of all things tea, Zhena’s Gypsy Tea is the place for you. All certified organic and all certified Fair Trade, there’s a healthy and flavorful choice in green, black, white, chai, herbal, rare, loose leaf, or sachet teas. Zhena also has a selection of “Pink” teas especially for women’s health, infused with anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Zhena’s Teas are also certified Biodynamic, guaranteeing these criteria:

* Highest paradigm of sustainable farming.

* Self- sustaining ecosystem free from any external and unnatural additions.

* Heals the environment for future generations.

* One of the smallest carbon footprints of any agricultural method.

* Oldest non-chemical agricultural movement in the West, predating the organic farming movement by 20 years

So, if you’re in the market for an amazing cup of tea or tea accessories, get into “the original spirit of tea” from Zhena’s.

Zhena’s Gypsy Tea is a Fair Trade the White House gift bag participant.

Jones GABA

2009-07-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

Enjoy mental focus and clarity? How about reducing the carbon footprint and supporting fair trade? A tasty beverage? Well Jones GABA is "Keeping It Real" by encompassing energy management, waste reduction, recycling and Fair Trade Certified practices inside and outside its office.

Jones GABA drinks come in 4 tasty flavors: Fuji-Apple, Lemon Honey, Grapefruit & Nectarine. Enjoy the delicious taste of fair-trade certified tea, honey, cane sugar and fruit juices—all while putting you “in the zone” to perform at your peak.

Want to test your Jones GABA IQ? Take the quiz and get a coupon!

Order On-line or Shop Locally!

Jones GABA is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House and uses certified ingredients by Trans Fair USA.

Another Mention for Respect Fair Trade Sports Balls

2009-07-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Check out the world's first fairly made, fairly traded sports balls write up at Got2BeGreen! Respect Fair Trade Sports balls are vegan, sweat-free and union made.

Discover more resources at Got2BeGreen.com.

Both Respect Fair Trade Sports and Got2BeGreen are proud supporters of Fair Trade the White House. Join them in the "Fair Party" and sign the invitation to First Lady to Fair Trade her Home.

Don't forget to check out their free shipping offer under Savings at FTWH!

It's Only Natural Gifts

2009-07-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Organic gifts are a naturally delicious and luxurious way to express your sentiments, for any occasion: Organic Thank You gift baskets, Eco-friendly Housewarming gifts, Organic Sympathy gifts, Natural and Organic Baby gifts, Birthday gifts, fairly traded gifts and more.

Choose from pre-designed gift sets or create a customized organic gift to fit any budget.

Organic Gifts is a member of Green America, offers products certified by Trans Fair USA and is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

Check out their giving tips and all their Organic, Fair Trade & Natural selections. You'll love what you see - it's only natural!

Albert's Organics Bananas

2009-07-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Want the quick 411 on fair trade bananas?
Albert's Organics has it for you!

Albert's Organics sells Fair Trade Certified produce with Trans Fair USA's label. They are also a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House and will include FTC fruit to the White House Outreach.

D.C. Fair Trade Town Meetings

2009-07-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

Get Involved in D.C.

Help Fair Trade the White House Supporter, D.C. Fair Trade Network in their monthly meetings to become an official Fair Trade Town, USA!

Meeting dates:

Wednesday, 22 July
Wednesday, 19 August
Wednesday, 26 August
Wednesday, 9 September
Wednesday, 16 September

** Note: there are two dates in each month so as to allow more people the opportunity to join. While people are welcome to attend all meetings, it is not required.

Meeting venue: Teaism Penn Quarter, 400 8th St. NW. Go downstairs and look for red Meetup sign. If anyone needs directions, they are welcome to call me at: 203-915-0765.

RSVP to join the DC Fair Trade Network and attend the meeting at Meetup!

Inca Kids

2009-07-21T13:28:00.000-07:00

Inca Kids works directly with incredibly talented artisans in Peru, guaranteeing them fair wages, a sustainable workplace, equal opportunities for men and women and community building initiatives that foster awareness of the fair trade movement. All of their artisan toys, home décor, apparel and accessories are made from natural materials, unique and beautiful.

Shop these Peruvian pieces of art and simultaneously sustain a family.

Inca Kids is a self-funded project member of the Fair Trade Federation and supporter of Fair Trade the White House

Tropical Salvage

2009-07-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

Tropical Salvage furniture is made from tropical hardwoods which are salvage on several different islands of the Indonesian archipelago. None of the wood comes from standing trees. Tropical Salvage selects quality hardwoods that are both durable and exceptionally beautiful. The wood is old: some a few decades old, some a thousand years old. It beautifully expresses its history as wild-growth grain figure, mineral accumulation, and the effects of nails, seasoning cracks & bore holes are evident in many pieces. They are a wonderful testament to the wood's historical richness and new life.

Follow their Blog
Find A Location
Catalog

Fair Trade Federation Member
Green America Member
Fair Trade the White House Supporter

MissMalaprop.com

2009-07-19T17:04:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade the White House received further exposure on MissMalaprop's blog! MissMalaprop.com was created in August 2006 as a place to:

showcase unique and independently made products and small businesses
document personal missions to live a more environmentally sustainable and socially responsible lifestyle
talk about what’s really going on in New Orleans and the Mississippi Gulf Coast and showcase NOLA and Gulf South based artists and businesses

Read her write up in the Links to Love post! Or go to Media Mentions at FTWH Party Headquarters!

Thanks, MissMalaprop!

Find her on Facebook and Twitter

Greenheart

2009-07-18T00:43:00.000-07:00

What Color's Your Heart?

Greenheart Shop is Chicago’s only nonprofit eco friendly, fair trade store. Greenheart is fair to producers and good to the earth through its support of local, social enterprises and global fair trade partnerships. They carry a variety of goods including recycled accessories and handbags, home goods, gourmet treats, cookbooks, glassware, jewelry, toys, personal care, organic cotton t-shirts and more.

Greenheart believes consumers have the power to affect positive World change by supporting sustainable and fair business practices in their purchasing choices.

Greenheart is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation and Green America, they carry Fair Trade Certified products through Trans Fair USA and support Fair Trade the White House by contributing among the list of Retailers.

Shop & Blog

Shop Green. Shop Fair.

Got2BeGreen & Eco World Decor

2009-07-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

Eco World D é cor made Got2B Green's site (you can read their write up here)! What do they both have in common? Well, a couple of things! Not only are they both environmentally and socially aware, they both are supporters of Fair Trade the White House, inviting First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade her Home.

Eco World Décor sells unique and beautifully made hand woven baskets made from a group of artisans in the Philippines. Got2BeGreen is your one stop place to learn about all things green and eco-friendly. And they have linked arms with other passionate artisans, vendors, distributors, organizations and individuals to promote fair trade in America.

You can find Eco World D é cor listed among our Distributors and Got2BeGreen is one of our esteemed Media Sponsor s.

Fair Trade Washington D.C.

2009-07-16T00:08:00.000-07:00

What do Media, PA, Brattleboro, VT, Milwaukee, WI, Amherst, MA, Taos, NM, Northampton, MA, San Francisco, CA, Montclair, NJ, Ballston Spa, NY, Chico, CA, and Bluffton, OH all have in common?...

...They are all Fair Trade Towns, USA!

And, proudly riding on their coattails is Washington D.C., confident that they, too, will soon have enough supporters, vendors, retailers and patrons of fair trade goods in their community.

Meet up

Join their cause on Facebook

and spread the word to help get D.C. declared an official Fair Trade Town!

DC Fair Trade is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House.

Find out more about how to become a Fair Trade Town.

Show Yourself!

2009-07-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

Take a look and see who's signing the invitation asking First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade the White House! The home page now displays changing images of passionate people committed to increasing fair trade awareness in America.

Haven't signed? Go to Fair Trade the White House and read in greater detail about how you can join the "Fair Party" by learning more about fair trade and then sign your name with the 360 already there (as of July 14th)!

Alter Eco

2009-07-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

Alter Eco is committed to the following:

Playing an active part to wed product quality and a sustainable approach centered on people and our planet.

Promoting Fair Trade and increasing awareness about fair trade amongst consumers in the northern hemisphere.

Transparency and traceability.

"We are a team of fair trade visionaries and food-loving explorers on a mission to connect you to our farmers and their honest foods. When you taste the sweet justice of our mission you will understand our persistence, and our invitation to join us in finding you Alter Eco."

Decadent chocolate, nutritious quinoa, tasty teas...check out their website for a whole lot more and take your time to learn more about fair trade and the relationships Alter Eco has forged through their responsible trading methods. You can also write a personal message to the farmers!

Alter Eco proudly offers products certified by Trans Fair USA, is a member of the Fair Trade Federation and Green America and supports Fair Trade the White House.

Guayaki

2009-07-13T18:48:00.000-07:00

With a passion for mate, Guayakí partners with small farmers and indigenous communities to source mate from the sub-tropical forests of South America. From the simple love of a beverage, Guayakí drinkers have become a driving force for conservation and community development by paying a fair trade price for rainforest-grown mate.

Never sipped on a cup of yerba mate? Both its taste and nutritional value will keep you coming back for more! Learn all about its benefits at Guayaki. They don't call it "drink of the gods" for nothing!

Guayaki is certified "Fair For Life" (IMO) and by Trans Fair USA. They are members of the Fair Trade Federation and are proud supporters of Fair Trade the White House.

Click here to see how you can get your discount!

Little Works, USA

2009-07-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

Little Works, USA carries beautiful, hand made greeting cards, each of which are true works of art that express originality for all occasions. Ranging from birthdays, weddings, engagements, Christmas, quotations, African & ethnic and just about every other holiday, Little Works imports greeting cards from South Africa and Namibia, paying sustainable wages to the artisans.

Their mission is to give women and children the opportunity of education, security and self respect. Little Works also carries recyclable cards and, just a side note, if you’ve purchased cards at The Ritz-Carlton or The Smithsonian, it just might have come from Africa -- by way of Little Works!

Shop at Little Works and find your favorite fairly traded cards.

Member of Fair Trade Federation and Green America.

Supporter of Fair Trade the White House Campaign
Read more about their scholarship fund
Twitter
Facebook

Anti-Body

2009-07-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

The founders of Anti-Body, LLC (anti-poverty, beautiful body) embarked on a mission to create a consumer product that would benefit both the customer and the individuals from developing countries who produce their ingredients. After extensive research about the most natural and beneficial ingredients, they formulated their body-care line to include fair trade ingredients (most certified through Trans Fair USA!).

As founders of Fair Trade the White House, Anti-Body is very proud to have support of the many fair trade organizations, retailers, distributors, vendors and individuals and honored to have the collaboration of a strong Steering Committee to give this campaign momentum and increase fair trade awareness in America.

Get Caught! Follow their blog, become a fan on Facebook, and get a discount through FTWH!

Anti-Body is a proud member of Green America

Chicago Soydairy

2009-07-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

Chicago Soydai ry brings us 100% vegan and cruelty-free, high quality foods - from Teese Vegan Cheese to Temptation Vegan Ice Cream to Dandies Vegan Marshmellows. One hundred percent of their operating energy is offset with Green Solar and Wind Energy Credits, as certified through Green-E.org and they use delicious Fair Trade Certified ingredients through Trans Fair USA. Each product can stand on its own or make a sundae, pizza or cup of cocoa!

Learn more about their products
Find where to shop (you won't be disappointed!)
Check out all their flavors!

Chicago Soydairy is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House

Global Goods Partners

2009-07-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

Global Goods Partners is a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting social justice by strengthening women-led development initiatives and creating access to the US market for marginalized communities in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They offer a wide selection of handmade goods that combine sustainable materials with sustainable lifestyles.

Global Goods Partners is a member of the Fair Trade Federation and Green America and is a valued addition to Fair Trade the White House (GGP is contributing a home decor item in the gift bag to the First Lady).

Read more about their partners, shop for change and sign up for their e-Newsletter.

Promote Fair Trade!

2009-07-09T20:09:00.001-07:00

Have a website, social networking account or blog? You can help promote fair trade growth in America by adding the Fair Trade the White House banner to customize your page! Or print out promotional materials and customize your own Fair Party!

The more signatures and support, the stronger our chance of inviting First Lady Michelle Obama to Fair Trade her Home.

"Always remember that no matter what obstacles stand in our way, nothing can stand in the way of the power of millions of voices calling for change."

President Barack Obama

Be Sweet

2009-07-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

Creative Products with a Conscience

If you have ever been concerned about how your fashion affects people or the environment, your worries are now over. Be Sweet was founded by Nadine Curtis who, after living in Cape Town, South Africa, decided fashion should be ethical and ethical clothing should be fashionable. She gives villagers a fair wage for their mohair, bamboo and organic cotton yarns, accessories and home goods. Be Sweet then offers a line of unique, quirky, whimsical and beautiful clothes, jewelry, home items as well as yarn and patterns.

Be Sweet has gone the extra step so that shopping for your wardrobe can easily be fashionable and honest.

Find out where to Buy and sign up for their Newsletter.

Members of Fair Trade Federation and supporters of Fair Trade the White House

Fair Trade

2009-07-07T00:04:00.000-07:00

Curious about Fair Trade? It can get pretty technical, but in short, it's the way trade is supposed to be handled. Why? Because it's the just, fair if you will, method of trading; between people, countries and continents.

Fair Trade the White House (FTWH) has a quick and user-friendly tutorial and timeline on what, exactly, is fair trade?!

As set forth by the World Fair Trade Organization and the Fairtrade Labeling Organization, Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers. Fair Trade Organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.

For further understanding, FTWH also recommends perusing (in ABC order) Fair For Life (IMO), Fair Trade Federation, Fair Trade Resource Network, and Trans Fair USA.

Join the "Fair Party"!

Facebook

2009-07-06T23:46:00.000-07:00

Up to date, Fair Trade the White House has nearly 500 conscientious friends on Facebook... and growing! Thanks to social networking sites (like Facebook), we've been able to get the fair trade word out there, and fast. Please help us continue the responsible trend and invite your friends to join the "Fair Party". And cordially invite First Lady Michelle Obama to declare the White House a Fair Trade Home!

Facebook
Sign the Invitation

Seattle Fair Trade Town

2009-07-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

Media, PA was America's first Fair Trade Town...Seattle, WA is making great headway to becoming its twelfth!

Collaborating with Fair Trade Towns USA, Seattle is working tirelessly to get more Fair Trade Certified products sold in local retail stores, coffee shops and businesses. Fair Trade Seattle was recently mentioned in Trans Fair USA's Newsletter after the Mayor's Neighborhood Walk of the Roosevelt Neighborhood. Mayor Nichols visited the local Ten Thousand Villages where he learned of the campaign to make Seattle a fair trade city and agreed to send them a representative for the Steering Committee!

There's still much work to do, but Stacie Ford-Bonnelle, Shin Shin Hsia (Co-Coordinators of Campaign to Make Seattle a Fair Trade City) and their crew of hard working team members will get the job done.

To learn more about how your home town can become fair trade, visit Fair Trade Towns USA (new website to launch soon) and start the process!

Seattle Fair Trade is a proud supporter of Fair Trade the White House (newly linked on their website and blog!).

Ananse Village

2009-07-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

Ananse Village works with artisans from villages across the African continent. Their unique, traditional crafts range from South African baskets to West African drums -- and each item is hand made and fairly traded and the artisans have fair working conditions!

In Ananse Village’s recent trip to Ghana, they documented the process of turning glass into beautiful beads. See their compelling story here.

Shop and find out more News.

Ananse Village is a member of the Fair Trade Federation and supporter of
Fair Trade the White House

More From Our S’mores!

2009-07-01T23:36:00.000-07:00

The s’mores are speaking out…for Fair Trade! This summer, let your S’mores make a statement! By making S’mores with Fair Trade Certified chocolate, you will be sending a message to Hershey and the rest of the cocoa industry that:

* We want an END to poverty and abusive child labor in the cocoa industry

* We want our chocolate to be FAIR TRADE Certified

The goal is to make 1,500 Fair Trade S’mores and members of social justice, environmental, faith-based, labor and other organizations nationwide will be teaming up to meet this goal!

It’s easy and delicious!

You can participate in the comfort of your own home or whenever you go to a summer barbecue/campfire/bonfire. You can also use the S’mores Action as a fun summer event to keep your social group/club/congregation/school/workplace/etc excited and involved!

For more details on how to participate, how to register your s’mores online, and fun Fair Trade S’mores campfire activities, visit the Global Exchange website.

Watch the video of Global Exchange's S’mores Action last year

* Global Exchange's S'mores Campaign is not affiliated with Fair Trade the White House, but we love chocolate and we love Fair Trade!