So we all know that Mayu is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation, but not all of us know what exactly that means.
Let me give you the basics:
Fair trade is a system of exchange that seeks to create greater equity and partnership in international trading system by
- Creating Opportunities for Economically and Socially Marginalized Producers
- Developing Transparent and Accountable Relationships
- Building Capacity
- Promoting Fair Trade
- Paying Promptly and Fairly
- Supporting Safe and Empowering Working Conditions
- Ensuring the Rights of Children
- Cultivating Environmental Stewardship
- Respecting Cultural Identity
By approaching development as a whole process (rather than just a fair price), fair trade organizations cultivate partnerships with their suppliers and contribute to the development of communities. Fair trade is not about charity; it uses a fairer system of exchange to empower producers and to create sustainable, positive change (www.fairtradefederation.org).
I became interested in the topic of Fair Trade during my time in the Peace Corps because I witnessed rampant exploitation and poor labor conditions that many Peruvians had to endure.
Elivra, one of our most active knitters!
Mayu’s artisans are able to work from home while simultaneously taking care of their children and their homes (cooking, cleaning). They love the flexibility of not having to “report to the office”! It is not uncommon to see the women knitting while walking down the street, while attending meetings at school, while chatting with their friends on the street corners. It is quite handy that they can practically knit with their eyes closed!
For more information about our artisans, visit Mayu’s FAQ page.
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