The whole month of October we celebrate Fair Trade!  The purpose is to remind us that as consumers we have the power to choose for change as we spend our money. The main purpose of Fair Trade Month is to collectively increase the awareness of why one should choose to support fair trade. 

We can all be changemakers and one way to do that is by consciously deciding to choose fair trade products over commodities that are harmful to the planet, our economy, to communities and to people in general.

Why Fair Trade Matters? 

Fair trade is an ethical business model that focuses on the impact of the process of production, marketing, and selling of products while providing economic opportunities for disadvantaged producers. Decades of demand for supply and consumption has led to practices that deteriorate the environment. In response, fair trade promotes sustainable ways to prevent environmental degradation. When it comes to workers, producers and artisans, fair trade’s goal is to promote inclusivity, safe working conditions and equal pay while preserving tradition. 

Looking at the bigger picture, this global movement also shows how we as human beings are connected to each other and our environment. For us, fair trade is more than just a business model but a way of stepping up for a kind of life that respects humanity and our relationship to nature. 

Fair Trade in Relation to UN Sustainable Goals

The United Nations General Assembly listed 17 sustainable goals to address staggering poverty and attain sustainable development by the year 2030. These goals represent an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people from around the globe while protecting our planet. As a fair trade business and members of the Fair Trade Federation, we address the following sustainable goals through our work: 

Goal 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.

Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages.

Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. 

Goal 5: Promote gender equality.

Goal 6: Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. 

Goal 7: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. 

Get Involved All Year Round 

Your purchase has the power to create change. By shopping from brands that highlight the value of fair trade principles, you are part of making the lives of others more meaningful. You take part in a community that works for a better world! 

• Keep on learning about fair trade and how this movement is creating impact on communities and the environment. 
• Before purchasing a product, read about the brand or company that you are supporting. 
• Be updated and read more about fair trade news to raise your awareness. 
• Share your favorite fair trade brands with your loved ones. 
• Choose to give fair trade gifts in place of mass-produced products. 

As a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation, we strive for 360° fair trade! What does this mean? We are wholeheartedly involving our artisan partners in a long-term and holistic partnership that help them to grow their business and live a dignified life. By adhering to the values of fair trade, together we can truly make a difference! 

We at Women’s Peace Collection are taking the month of June to honor PRIDE Month. Even in the midst of COVID-19, we continue to celebrate the work of the LGBTQ community, especially the activists who have changed the world. The whole month of June is a reminder to everyone around the globe to give voice to LGBTQ rights-- a call for gender equity, one of the very cornerstones of Fair Trade.

A Brief History of PRIDE MONTH 

On June 28, 1969, a famous gay bar in N.Y.C.’s West Village was raided by the police. Police raids were a common occurrence at The Stonewall Inn. However, on this date, the patrons of the establishment stood up, marking a major milestone for the Gay Liberation Movement. 

A year after the Stonewall Riots, the world witnessed the first ever Gay Pride March--- a coming together of the LGBTQ community proudly walking against injustice. This parade is a testament against gender and sexual orientation inequality.

Recalling the history of Pride Month is crucial as it reminds us that the fight is far from over. We are beautifully reminded that as a community, change is possible. 

A Call for Equality 

Fair Trade transcends trading as it proves that successful businesses should prioritize people first.  In the advent of fair trade, gender gaps are being challenged. 

There is no denying that in the modern workplace, homophobia and transphobia greatly affect the dynamics and atmosphere among workers. Individuals part of the LGBTQ community are exposed to abuse, singled-out, and stigmatized. 

“According to a PEW Survey, 21 % of LGBTQ workers report that they have been discriminated against in hiring, promotions and pay. LGBTQ employees are more than twice as likely to be bullied and discriminated against as heterosexual employees in the workplace, and nearly half of trans people are not living permanently in their preferred gender role, for fear it might threaten their employment status.” - Ethical Trade Organization

The 6 colored flag of the PRIDE March is symbolic of life, spirit, nature, and harmony. Looking closely, these too are what Fair Trade brings to the table. While Fair Trade is by no means the sole solution for the issues faced by the LGBTQ, it does provide a space for equal dialogue. Fighting against discrimination in the workplace is one of the 10 principles in the Fair Trade arena. No matter one’s status, gender, sexual orientation, religion and beliefs, organizations embodying the fair trade spirit accept visibility, diversity and inclusivity. 

How else do you think fair trade can make a difference in the lives of the LGBTQ community?

Share your thoughts with us! 

There are few things more exciting, rewarding and overwhelming than walking on stage to accept your diploma. You are about to enter the next chapter of your life as you graduate. Being an adult you are accountable, more than ever, to your life decisions. Whether you believe it or not, your choices as you become an adult member of society and part of the workforce can create change. 

We live in a consumption driven society. This is the cycle of the modern economy. The unfortunate truth is that traditional businesses value profit over people and the environment. Would you buy a piece of jewelry or clothing if you knew that makers were exploited in the process? Would you support a brand if their business practices cause harm to Mother Earth, your home? 

You can use your dollar to make other people’s dreams come true, vote for equality, support sustainability, and empower inclusivity. 

How to start your journey to making ethical choices: 

1. Before purchasing anything, do your research! Make a list of your current favorite brands and take a look at what they are really about. It’s easy to be swayed by fads and trends but following what’s in fashion, may not be the best ethical choice. 
2. Find out more about the brands by researching their business practices. If there are no resources, be courageous enough to ask them about it. 
3. Be constantly conscious of how you spend your dollar. Use the power of your pocket to support brands that matter. Choose brands that continue to strive for ethical practices in doing their business. 
4. Start supporting brands that are committed to fair trade! Fair Trade is a simple and beautiful idea wherein both people and the environment are taken into consideration in the production of goods. 
5. Lastly, don’t beat yourself too much in the process of the shift to a more sustainable lifestyle. Take it one purchase at a time. What matters the most is that you continue to make the effort. 

We invite and urge you, as a member of the future generation, to be a changemaker in your own way. Even through what may seem to be trivial daily decisions, like buying your groceries, shopping for home essentials, or for a new wardrobe, you CAN make a difference in the lives of others. Making an ethical choice, one day at a time, creates a positive ripple effect! 

Mother's Day is a time to honor ALL mothers - that includes grandmothers, aunts, daughters who are mothers, and more. This Mother’s Day we hope you will consider purchasing fair trade gifts that are ethically handmade by talented artisans.  When buying our products you honor these courageous  women - most of whom are mothers themselves - who are behind each creation. Make this year’s gift extra special by buying a gift that gives back to women and mothers across the globe!

Here are some of our suggested gifts for Mom:  

Fair Trade Scarves 

Scarves are a basic staple in any woman’s wardrobe.  We just love how one can play around with scarves throughout any season. Whether your mom uses her scarf as an accent to her wardrobe, a decorative piece for her bag if she’s feeling creative, or as a wrap when your family hits the beach--- she’ll love our ethically made scarves from India, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan, Guatemala and Indonesia! Explore our Scarf Collection 

Ethically made Jewelry 

You’ve probably noticed the wide variety of jewelry on our website, all handmade by our artisan partners around the globe. There are definitely a lot of pieces to choose from, and depending on your mom’s personality, we’re sure you can find something that’ll speak to her. We especially like our latest Spring Collection with themes ranging from fun, color, and class. Our silver collection in particular, is easy to wear everyday. We also have necklaces, bracelets and rings featuring stones and pearls. 

Handmade Tote Bags 

We have two NEW tote bags from India! Our Recycled Kaleidoscope Tote Bag and Recycled Indigo Bag are made of recycled fabric and a bit of suede with pockets meant to keep everything organized for the day. If your mom loves to have everything organized when heading out, she’ll totally love these colorful and fabulous totes! These bags have a laid back look, which she can pair with her casual daily attire. 

Curated Home Decor 

Does your mom never stop improving and beautifying her home? Our ethically made home accents might just be the right gift for her. We have handmade baskets from Guatemala and Kenya that can be used as decorations, fruit baskets and organizers. Our wooden spoons and salad servers will also be a great addition to her kitchen accessories. Explore Home Decor Collection. 

We believe that moms deserve a gift that is an expression of your love for her!  And now you can get any of our ethically made products at 20% off. Even our New Arrivals are on sale.  Use code MOM20 upon check-out through Sunday, May 2^nd to receive the discount.  For every purchase you make, you are not only making your mom smile but other women too. 

“The fact is that no species has ever had such wholesale control over everything on earth, living or dead, as we now have. That lays upon us, whether we like it or not, an awesome responsibility. In our hands now lies not only our own future, but that of all other living creatures with whom we share the earth.”

― David Attenborough, Life on Earth

 The Earth is our home and the planet where we thrive as human beings alongside nature. However, as we continue in our pursuit towards development and advancement without taking care of the environment our planet suffers the repercussions. Earth Day is a reminder that we are one with the Earth rather than separate entities going about our daily lives. 

We are part of the planet, as such it is our responsibility to be involved. Our involvement is important because ecology is not only about the presence of natural resources but it also includes us of course. We consume more than 80% of the planet’s natural resources, mostly without thinking about the results of these decisions. If we continue acting in ways that aren’t sustainable to the environment, we all lose. 

Why Earth Day? 

“Earthday.org’s mission is to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide. Growing out of the first Earth Day in 1970, EARTHDAY.ORG is the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, working with more than 75,000 partners in over 190 countries to drive positive action for our planet.” - Earth Day 

Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day is a reminder for all to voice out and channel human energy to environmental issues. Every year we celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd with the goal towards bold, creative, and innovative solutions to address the environmental crisis. 

The fight is a continuous effort to bring into light transformational change around the world to take action with commitment. Earthday.Org focuses on the following issues around the world: 

•  Climate Action
•  Science and Education
•  People and Communities
•  Conservation and Restoration
•  Plastic and Pollution 

Be Part of Earth Day 2021 

"As the world returns to normal, we can’t go back to business-as-usual.” 

- Lindsay Dunahee, 

The state of our environment is the key to our survival. Join the discussion from April 20-22 in celebration of Earth Day 2021.  Listen to world leaders and jump into the discussion on how we can prevent disasters as a result of climate change and environmental destruction. While we cannot completely reverse the environmental damage we've caused, we can still be part of the healing process. It's easy to brush off environmental issues and leave them to the big players. However, our choices, actions and decisions as individuals, organizations and businesses play an important role.  Your micro-world affects the whole and when individual voices come together, change is underway.

Women’s Peace Collection - Sustainability Practices

Women’s Peace Collection is committed to being a sustainable business and incorporating as many environmentally sound practices as possible.  Last year we made a decision to eliminate virtually all plastic in our operations (with the exception of re-using the plastic that we receive our items in). We scouted out alternative packaging options and discovered some wonderful recycled paper shipping solutions.  While a bit more expensive, we’re thrilled with what we’ve come up with.  Our minimalist packaging now includes recycled and recyclable paper packages (including all paper padded envelopes), as well as reused packing paper.   If you’ve ordered from us you’ve probably noticed our kind of funky looking packages – we hope you appreciate the intent behind them!

In our administrative operations, we recycle all paper and plastic and reuse materials whenever possible.  We are about to introduce a new feature at checkout on our website where we offer our customers the option to pay to plant trees in order to offset their carbon footprint.  Stay tuned!

Women’s Peace Collection is also committed to sourcing sustainable products.  Our clothing, jewelry and accessories are largely made with recycled textiles or organic cotton; and our metal jewelry is sourced from recycled metals or sustainable mining operations. Additionally, our baskets, some of our clothing, and many of our accessories are sourced from renewable plant and animal materials such as pine needles, grasses, bamboo, and alpaca.

We strive to have environmental stewardship at the top of our priority list, always!

Happy Earth Day!

It is easy to be swayed and influenced by the glamorized world of fashion. We are bombarded with advertisements from brands all over the web which influence every decision we make when it comes to buying clothes and accessories without ever asking who made them.  As we seek to learn and become more conscious of how consumption works and its effect on our lives, we can begin shifting the gears towards change. 

What is the Fashion Revolution? 

This year marks the 8th year of the Rana Plaza incident, which sparked the Fashion Revolution Movement. In 2013 a garment factory with over 5,000 workers (mostly women) in Bangladesh collapsed taking the lives of thousands. Prior to its collapse, there were already reports specifying the unsafe conditions in the workplace. The workers did not feel safe in the factory but these concerns were set aside resulting in the catastrophe that put the fashion industry, stripped of its glamour, into the spotlight.

Every April, we celebrate the Fashion Revolution Movement. The main goal of the movement is to mobilize people around the globe to challenge how the existing fashion industry does things-- beginning with the supply chain.

Who made your clothes? Who made your jewelry? Who made your bag? Who made your shoes? There are faces behind every item you purchase. It passes through the hands of artisans and workers. Fashion Revolution calls out brands and businesses in the fashion industry and also appeals to us, as consumers, to be aware of our own purchases and consumption habits. 

Why Fair Trade? 

Fair Trade may not be the sole solution but it’s a start. Through fair trade principles the incident at Rana Plaza can be prevented from happening again. Fair Trade reinforces the ideals on which the Fashion Revolution Movement stands for - where artisans are protected and treated with dignity. 

Workers under the Fair Trade model are paid with fair wages, work in safe conditions and are empowered through capacity building. Most importantly, fair trade businesses and organizations are expected to be transparent and accountable throughout their supply chain. A fair trade enterprise has a genuine concern over the social, economic and environmental well-being of artisans and producers. 

As a Fair Trade enterprise, we, at Women’s Peace Collection, stand alongside the Fashion Revolution Movement by selling ethical, beautiful, handcrafted items made in global villages and cities by talented artisans. 

We are challenging the norms of the fashion industry by: 

1. Providing fair wages for our artisan partners
2. Supporting the ethical treatment of our partners &
3. Choosing sustainability over profit 

Learn more about our mission & values. 

It’s a long road to break the chain of unethical practices in the fashion industry, however through collective action we can become the very agents of change. 

Want to continue supporting artisans around the globe with your dollar as part of your Fashion Revolution challenge?  Shop our Spring Collection.

“A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change.  So let's all choose to challenge ourselves.  How will you help forge a gender- equal world?  Celebrate women's achievement.  Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality.”   (Internationalwomensday.com)

On March 8 we officially celebrate International’s Women’s Day to commemorate accomplishments by women around the globe. History has shown how women have fought for equality throughout the generations, something which continues to this very day. 

The achievements of women across the globe cannot be ignored.  We hear, read, and witness the struggles of women around the world as well as their conviction to facilitate change. This strong drive makes women convincing advocates to address their struggles and to find the solutions to these problems. 

This year's theme for International Women’s Day is #ChooseToChallenge. We are called to challenge stereotypes and preconceived notions towards women. Dare to stand-up against inequality and use your voice to call-out injustices experienced by women. 

The time is right to #ChooseToChallenge ourselves and be free of the biases ingrained by society. Use this inner conviction to unlearn preconceived notions, and be an agent of change to educate your own community. 

We join IWD in their goal to forge a gender equal world by celebrating women’s achievement and standing against inequality. Here are IWD’s mission: 

• Celebrate women in tech and innovation 
• Applaud equality for women in sport 
• Educate women on health choice decisions 
• Build inclusive workplaces so women thrive 
• Forge women's empowerment worldwide 

As a women-led business, we value the importance of women’s role in our society. Our work as a social enterprise helps women around the world to realize their dreams and create a better life for themselves and their families. 

When women are given the opportunity to thrive, their community thrives along with them. We are responsible for our own actions and thoughts. We can choose the path where we all stand side by side, as a collective, to create a more inclusive community.  Stand-up, raise your hand and show your support to women worldwide.