Handicrafts, Fair Trade & Service: Making the Connection

By Kelsey Holmes, Greenheart Club Program Assistant

Greenheart is committed to conscious consumerism and ethical purchasing.  A few months ago, the Greenheart Club blog focused on explaining what fair trade means, why telling the story of your purchase matters, and how you can make a difference by joining the fashion revolution.  But how does this knowledge affect our daily lives of service?

First, awareness of issues surrounding fast fashion enable Greenhearts to make decisions that promote community, growth and sustainability – all key elements of service.  In making sure that our purchases reflect the values of Greenheart, we can actively live out our mission to live selflessly in a way that benefits others.

Second, understanding the story of our purchases better connects us to each other and the global community.  Imagine that you worked really hard to create a beautiful piece of art or clothing.  Wouldn’t you want to be recognized for your work?  If you were going to sell your creation, wouldn’t you want to be paid a fair amount for the time, effort and resources you invested in crafting it?  The products we purchase do not just magically appear; recognizing the human value is imperative to fostering a community that is socially just.

Finally, taking a stand against fast fashion and the exploitation of workers across the globe serves to promote global community and combat social, political and economic problems worldwide.  Using our voice to hold major corporations accountable for their business and development practices, and to elevate the voices of those who are all too often underrepresented or unheard is key to being an impactful global leader who is working for positive change. Click on the photo below to learn more:

So now what? Greenheart Club works to provide knowledge for members and resources to take that knowledge out into the world.  Check out this list of fair trade and ethical clothing brands if you’re into fashion.  Stop by the Greenheart Shop for home goods and accessories.  Share your story with those you meet, on your social media platforms, and with the artisans who worked so you could enjoy high quality, sustainable items.  Most importantly, make that connection – behind every purchase is a human face.  How can you make ethical and conscious adjustments to your shopping habits that foster service and global leadership in your daily life?