What is Fair Trade? 

Fair Trade is a global movement that seeks to promote equitable trading relationships, fair wages, and sustainable practices for farmers and artisans in developing countries. It emphasizes social, economic, and environmental responsibility. By choosing Fair Trade products, consumers help support marginalized communities, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their labor and that their working conditions are safe and ethical. Fair Trade Month, observed in October, is a time to amplify the message of fairness and sustainability in trade practices, inspiring individuals and organizations to make conscious choices that positively impact the lives of those who produce the goods we enjoy. 

  Fair Trade Activities at Penn State Brandywine 

Penn State Brandywine is doing its part to raise awareness about Fair Trade during this important month. Here are some of the exciting Fair Trade activities happening on campus:   

1. Vairo Library’s Fair Trade Book Display: The Vairo Library is playing an essential role in spreading awareness about Fair Trade. They have curated a Fair Trade book display, providing students and faculty with a wealth of information and resources to learn more about Fair Trade principles and practices.
   
2. First Year Seminar Library Workshops: Librarian Annie Jansen is leading First Year Seminar library workshops that use Fair Trade as a sample topic for research. This initiative not only educates students about Fair Trade but also encourages them to explore the broader implications of ethical consumption.
3. Bookstore: The campus bookstore is offering Fair Trade products such as Larabars and Tony Chocolonely chocolates. By purchasing these items, students, faculty and staff can support Fair Trade while indulging in delicious snacks.
        
4. Blue Apple Cafe: The Blue Apple Cafe is also participating in Fair Trade Month by offering Fair Trade products like Perfect Bars and Hu Snacking Dark Chocolate Gems in two enticing varieties: salty and mint. It’s a delightful way to experience the flavors of Fair Trade.
   
5. Hunger Banquet on 10/17/23: A highlight of Fair Trade Month at Penn State Brandywine was the Hunger Banquet scheduled for October 17, 2023. This event was an opportunity for the campus community to come together, share a meal, and gain insights into issues related to global hunger and poverty. By attending, participants learned more about the importance of Fair Trade in addressing these critical challenges.

After a year of interning for the Fair Trade Trailblazers, the time has come for me to pass on the torch of justice to the summer fair trade intern, Lisa Chun.

The experiences that I have had working for the Trailblazers, have taught me many lessons and provided me with much experience. Through the course of my internship, I was able to organize a variety of events on the Brandywine campus. One in particular was an Letter Writing event to congratulate the kids of the Walden school for being one of the first elementary schools to reach Fair Trade status. Many students, staff, and faculty came out to write letter of encouragement and to congratulate them on this huge accomplishment.

It has truly been an amazing experience to work along side my peers, faculty, and staff to advocate for a cause. I know as I move on to future endeavors I will carry with me the knowledge that I have gained from this internship and will continue to advocate for social justice issues.

REMEMBER

                                                                                                                 – Gandhi

Contributed by Leshaun Warner, Fair Trade Intern