This Independence Day, celebrate alongside women across the globe who are using Fair Trade to realize their own independence. By enabling the economic independence of women through traditional skills, such as batik and block printing, women artisans are transforming their communities, eradicating poverty, and embracing their independence with Fair Trade business.
Fair Trade Federation members Global Mamas and Mata Traders are inspiring examples of how Fair Trade can lift women out of poverty – and grant financial independence. Come by the Global Exchange Fair Trade Store in San Francisco and check out some of the beautiful batik and block printed dresses handcrafted by women in these meaningful cooperatives.
Celebrating Fair Trade and Independence Day has never been easier. This Saturday, July 2nd, the Global Exchange Fair Trade Store in San Francisco is offering 15% off all summer dresses – just in time for your Fourth of July barbeque!
Learn about the traditional block printing technique used on many of our summer dresses, during 1pm-4pm July 2nd. There will be a kids’ station with stamps, and displays about producer groups and printing practices. Enter a raffle by sharing what ‘independence’ means to you and win a $25 gift certificate to the store!
Fair Trade Federation member Global Mamas has created a space for women in Ghana to succeed as entrepreneurs. A network of independent businesses working together to penetrate larger markets, Global Mamas has steady and continuous orders that not only keep their women out of debt, but allow them the financial freedom to fulfill their families’ needs. Global Mama Martina said, “Five years back I was collecting loans with interest, but this year I have not needed any loans.” Another Global Mama, Alice, said, “I don’t depend on anyone. I’m dependable.”
Our Global Mamas dresses come from Cape Coast, Ghana. The batik prints and impeccable tailoring make these dresses part of the perfect summer outfit. You can read more about each of the Global Mamas (including those who handmade the dresses in the Global Exchange Fair Trade Store!) here.
Another member of the Fair Trade Federation, Mata Traders, was started by two women who traveled around India after graduating from college, and realized how their purchasing power could help transform lives. In doing so, they have women all over India and Nepal equality in the workplace and economic independence. The women’s cooperatives, which employ over 600 artisans, are democratically structured and provide benefits like childcare, annual medical check-ups, overtime pay, and community development programs.
The blockprinted fabrics are carefully tailored for a flattering fit. The 100% cotton makes these dresses easy to wear and care for, and can be worn day-to-night!
We hope to see you this Saturday, July 2nd for 15% off all Fair Trade summer dresses, a celebration of the traditional block printing craft, fun for kids, and a $25 gift certificate raffle!
Through the month of July, we will be offering 15% OFF savings on featured clothing, scarves, tablecloths & kitchen ware, AND much more!
Sneak peak at next weeks Saturday, July 9th special….15% OFF all cotton & silk summer scarves!
And Saturday, July 16th only…15% OFF Haitian Recycled Oil Drum Wall and Garden Art!