Fair Trade is about empowerment.  It empowers farmers and farm workers to lift themselves out of poverty with a more just system of trade.  But it also empowers you.  It empowers you to make change in the world simply by choosing to consume products that were produced and traded ethically and responsibly. When you buy Fair Trade Certified products, you are making a big difference in the livelihoods of farmers, factory workers, their families, and their communities, around the world–the people who make those products we enjoy.

For one thing, Fair Trade Certified producer organizations represent more than one million farmers and workers. When we include these workers’ families and dependents, the number rises to over five million people. Through the certification of Fair Trade products in the United States alone, more than $150,000,000 has been earned by Fair Trade Certified producer organizations over what they would have earned in the conventional (non Fair Trade) market.

This impact is so important to keep in mind, especially as we celebrate the achievements and benefits of Fair Trade throughout the month of October. To read more about the stories of the people that Fair Trade has positively benefited, check out the Fair Trade Month website and the section entitled Impact.