An Americans Understanding Of Fair Trade

I am an American, and prior to my venturing to foreign countries, I had no real knowledge regarding Fair Trade products. If I had encountered them in the United States I was unaware of it having occurred. Whether this was due to my personal selection of shops that kept me from these items, a deficiency in proper advertising, or that there is in fact little promotion in the area I lived in, I am still unaware.

The only reason the practice was even brought to my attention was because my recent travel companions were all British people who worked in the coffee market. It was through them that I first heard of Fair Trade and with them that I found myself immersed in its world. What had previously been unknown to me back home became nearly overwhelming in the countries I visited abroad.

Whether in London or Lagos I saw the fruit of Fair Trade. When I ventured to Belize City and Costa Rica everyone was familiar with the topic. So I embraced the idea of it and secretly condemned my nation for its failure to follow such a worthwhile approach to trade. Next, I took it upon myself to become educated on the subject regarding the origin of Fair Trade and the introduction of coffee into the mix, so I could participate in conversations. Much to my surprise I learned that Fair Trade began with an American woman back in the 1940’s. A small act on her behalf snowballed into an enduring worldwide practice of tremendous importance.

The embarrassment I felt over believing my homeland to have been remiss, has since been replaced with pride for its involvement. Specifically, I am pleased to be able to learn from my journeymen about the abundant success of Fair Trade Coffee. This is because our next stop on the itinerary is Ecuador, and during our visit we will visit some of the very land and people who produce Fair Trade coffee. I wonder whether the farmers know how substantial the growth of this arena has become, for they surely recognize their own dependency upon it. My intention is to communicate how far reaching their participation in this cause reaches and that those of us who consume their product relish it. To think that social justice, on such a large scale was taking place, and originated in my own country, but I knew nothing of it is flabbergasting. But, to redeem myself I will purchase Fair Trade coffee whenever possible, and I will spread the word to the remaining coffee consumers who have their heads in the sand.

By: Bluesea Dream

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Puro fair trade coffee beans are not only ethically sourced, but by working in partnership with the World Land Trust, Puro helps to protect vital areas of rainforest in South America. Puro also supplies a range of commercial espresso machines from Faema.