October is a truly great month. From the changing leaves, to some respite from hot weather, to our owner’s birthday, it’s just great.

But did you know that October is now internationally recognized as “Fair Trade Month?”

Fair trade is the practice of providing stringent work standards, including safe work spaces, fair living wages above the poverty threshold, and benefits like healthcare and education for artisans in the developing world. This is important because many workers in developing countries are working in poverty and are often unable to provide themselves or their families with basic necessities like food and shelter. By shopping products that are certified fair trade, you know that your purchase has not put anyone along the production line at risk and has likely even improved their quality of life.

By setting aside an entire month to promote fair trade clothing, accessories, food, and more, we are making strides towards helping consumers make educated and intentional purchases instead of simply buying what is easy to find and what is cheap.

If you’d like to get involved in some of the Fair Trade Federation’s initiatives for the month of October, you can:

• Find & support an FTF verified store or café in your local community

• Educate others about fair trade with quotes, graphics, blogs, and more

• Bid & spread the word about the Fair Trade Month Silent Auction

• Purchase from FTF members when shopping online

You can also make a purchase from a small shop like Ethos Kolekto! Everything in our shop was handmade in a fair trade setting in countries like: India, Kenya, Nepal, Tanzania, and more! Take 10% off of your purchase with code: ASANTE10.