If you couldn’t already tell, we love what fair trade is all about, so of course, we absolutely love celebrating World Fair Trade Day, which takes place this year on Saturday, May 10th. On this day each year people all over the world raise their voices in support of fair trade, a just wage for artisans, highlight the beautiful products that are made and give witness to the lives of both producers and consumers that are changed through this economic model of fairness.
Milwaukeeans should be proud to have so many fair trade businesses, especially coffee shops that serve fair trade coffee and tea in our area. In fact, we have over 100 coffee shops that do! In order to highlight how much fair trade is actually happening in Milwaukee (although maybe you didn’t even know it!) we are helping to organize the 7th Annual Greater Milwaukee Fair Trade Crawl. With over 20 businesses who carry fair trade products participating, you can spend the day checking-out eco-friendly products, tasting deliciously fair food, joining in on fun activities and taking advantage of special offers at all these locations. As for us, we are so excited to be debuting our newest collection of Mata Traders clothing and jewelry along with some special products from Greenola! Also, Mt. Meru Coffee Project will be at our story giving out free samples of their tasty brew. If you visit at least 7 locations, you win a fair trade prize!
And if this isn’t all exciting enough, new this year, the Milwaukee Fair Trade Coalition is hosting an after-party at the Riverwest Public House (815 E. Locust St) with live music by local band Urban Exchange, tasty snacks, and special coffee cocktails.
Whether you are a life-long fair trade advocate or have always just been curious what fair trade is all about, this is a great day to come out and show our community the difference that buying fair can make for not only disadvantaged producers around the world but for small businesses right here in our own community. We’ll be posting pictures from our store and the after party all day on Facebook so make sure to follow us and join the conversation.
More information about the day’s events plus a list of participating retail locations around the Greater Milwaukee area can be found at www.milwaukeefairtradecoalition.org.
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