IRTF works towards justice and equity in the distribution, access to, and participation in the production and consumption of the world’s resources for the people of Central America and Colombia. The conventional trade model is accelerating a race to the bottom that hurts workers, consumers, and the environment. Moreover, it further divides us into “haves” and “have nots.” As an alternative model, fair trade sets a series of standards to ensure fair wages and human dignity for producers, community investment, environmental sustainability, and more.
IRTF’s fair trade program generates thousands of dollars in much needed income for artisans and farmers in Latin America. This happens through the generous invitations of schools, community groups, and congregations that offer us table space at 40-50 events each year. Fair trade is an important part of IRTF’s human rights mission: to call together people in NE Ohio to walk in solidarity with oppressed peoples of Central America and Colombia to achieve peace, justice, human rights and systemic transformation through nonviolence.
From 8am-3:30pm: Thank you to St Joseph Academy for making this opportunity available to their students, parents, faculty, and staff.
From 5-8pm: Come visit the IRTF fair trade booth and other fair trade and local vendors.
Fair trade pays a living wage and upholds the dignity of the worker, a core principle of Catholic Social Teaching. We are grateful to St. Joseph Academy for giving their students, parents, faculty and staff a way to put their holiday shopping dollars to good use by making fair trade purchases.
Volunteers needed.
If you can help for a 2-hour shift, please email us at OhioFairTrade@irtfcleveland.org.
Thank you!
