October is Fair Trade Month
Fair trade is a growing movement across the globe – and it’s growing here in Chicago too. Buying food you’d purchase regularly, but choosing those that are fair trade certified ensures healthier labor conditions, increased worker wages and improved environmental standards in developing countries around the globe. Here are five ways you can be a “fair trader” in your kitchen this month (and every month!):
1. Seek it out: Look for the “Fair Trade Certified” label on products at your grocery store.
2. Drink it up: Chicago-based Argo Tea offers 100 percent organic, shade-grown, fair trade coffee – you don’t even have to make a special ask. Check out the variety of coffee shops around town that offer fair trade drinks
3. Be a wine-o: Fair trade wine supports healthy working conditions for grape growers and winery employees – and the grapes are also grown sustainably. Target now offers three varieties in its “Wandering Grape” collection.
4. Sweet treat: Make a banana split using only fair trade certified ingredients. From the ice cream, the banana to the chocolate on top, it all can be made fair trade.
Chicago Fair Trade GlobalFest
Chicago Fair Trade is hosting its annual GlobalFest, a fundraiser and a celebration of all things fair trade in our city. This year, it highlights South Asian partners and features a fair trade fashion show, food from the region, and a silent auction with lots of great items.
Wednesday, October 28
5:30-9pm
Roosevelt University, Congress Lounge
430 S. Michigan Ave.
Tickets: $40 – in advance