"Together, our voices and our actions make a difference."

In light of the news that continues to come out of Bangladesh, it is fitting that World Fair Trade Day should be observed today.  I received an email from Jolica's head office and I want to share what our co-founders, Ted & Darlene Loewen, had to say:

"The recent tragedies in the garment factories in Bangladesh have been a stark reminder of why Fair Trade matters. As we celebrate World Fair Trade Day this month, we are reminded that the need for Fair Trade is real and urgent. The artisans who create Jolica's products have safe working conditions, in part because of our business partnership.

Providing safe working conditions is one of the key principles of Fair Trade. Basic safety from building construction is certainly an important part of this definition but it is only the beginning. In the Fair Trade workshops we have visited, we have been impressed with steps taken to provide safe working environments. In Nepal, Rabi's workshop is open to the outdoors, allowing for fresh air to circulate. In Thailand, Ekachai showed us his novel invention for working safely with the flame that is necessary to melt silver. In Chile, Jessica makes it a priority to create an environment that is socially and emotionally safe for everyone. In Indonesia, our artisan partner group supplies first aid kits and first aid training, as well as clean washrooms to every workshop. Hygiene is key to their healthy environment.

As we mark World Fair Trade Day with our partners around the world, we can be confident that we are helping to demonstrate that there is a viable alternative to the kind of business model that puts people at risk for the sake of profit.

Together, our voices and our actions make a difference."