Fair Trade

New Traditions Fair Trade exists because we believe that a fair world is possible. A world in which the food we eat, the clothes we wear, and the jobs we work can benefit both people and the planet.

Founded in 1996 we've been fair trade from the start.  We see that small-scale farmers and artisans the world over benefit from fair trade, and we're set on creating a store and cafe where you can trust that your purchases make a difference in the lives of artisans in many countries and situations. 

We believe that a truly just economy must work in the interest of all people, especially those who have historically been the most marginalized. The farmworkers who are exploited on large farms in the North are often from the same communities as the small scale-farmers who struggle to make ends meet in the Global South. Family farms around the world face volatile prices, struggle to access markets, and to earn fair livelihoods. The common enemy: Unfair trade policies and corporate-friendly practices.

For 20 years we were members of the Fair Trade Federation, an organization of businesses committed to fair trade.  We began purchasing more directly from Mexico and it will take some time to organize those connections so that we can rejoin the Federation but our commitment remains the same.  

When we think of Fair Trade, we think of fair wages. And that’s a huge part of it. But Fair Trade does so much more to help elevate artisans in need. Here is a summary of its meaning and some of the ways Fair Trade practices go above and beyond to insure major impact for our artisan partners and their communities. 

Create Opportunities for economically and socially marginalized farmers and artisans. Fair trade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development achieved through long-term trading partnerships.

Develop Transparent and Accountable Relationships with artisans and farmers to ensure that relationships are open, fair, consistent, and respectful.

Build Capacity of farmers, artisans, and their communities. FTF members invest time and resources to help producers build their businesses and create sustainable supply chains.

Promote Fair Trade by raising awareness about fair trade, educating customers and producers, and inspiring other businesses to adopt fair trade practices.

Pay Promptly and Fairly by discussing costs and pricing openly and honestly so that producers are able to earn a fair wage.

Support Safe and Empowering Working Conditions that are free of discrimination and forced labor. Healthy workplaces empower producers to participate in decision-making.

Cultivate Environmental Stewardship by encouraging responsible use of resources and eco-friendly production. FTF members reduce, reuse, reclaim, and recycle materials whenever possible.

Ensure the Rights of Children by never using exploitative child labor. FTF members support children’s right to security, education, and play and respect the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Respect the Cultural Identity of the farmers and artisans and celebrate diversity. Fair trade products and production methods respect the traditions of the local communities.

 

Thank you for reading this far.  I hope all of our impacts in this world create even more fairness and abundance!