World Fair Trade Day and Month

World Fair Trade Day

On May 8, 2010, communities in 80+ countries will celebrate World Fair Trade Day.

"Poverty, climate change and economic crisis are the result of the products we buy and the businesses we choose to support," says the World Fair Trade Organization. "A simple thing like buying a product has consequences far beyond feeding your family."

With that impact in mind, the theme of this year’s World Fair Trade Day in the United States, Fair Trade My Home, reminds us to purchase and use Fair Trade items as part of our everyday lives.

When we expand the use of Fair Trade in our homes, we not only support the people who make the items we enjoy, but we also support the environment, women’s rights, children’s rights, cultural dignity and producer independence. We know that converting our meals, décor, housewares, personal care products, and other common items, are powerful steps towards greater justice.

To learn about events in your area, please visit the WFTD event calendar.

Visit the Fair Trade Resource Network (FTRN) website to download the World Fair Trade Day Action Guide for tips, ideas, and resources!  You can also order WFTD10 posters and postcards – free of charge.

In Canada, events are being planned across the county during National Fair Trade Weeks. From Nova Scotia to the Yukon, communities can see the faces of Fair Trade, enjoy Fair Trade events and activities, or also take a break to support the movement. Contact the FTF office or visit the Canadian Coalition for Fair Trade website for details. For details on Quinzaine in Quebec, please contact Equiterre.

Since 2002, people in more than 80 countries have set aside the second Saturday in May as World Fair Trade Day, the first global campaign for the Fair Trade movement connecting producers, businesses, and customers around the world. 

Efforts in North America are part of the larger international campaign for fair trade as coordinated by the World Fair Trade Organization (formerly IFAT).

Fair Trade Month 

Since 2004, fair traders in the United States have celebrated every October as Fair Trade Month, a complement to World Fair Trade Day in May. Throughout the month, organizations seek to promote fair trade in the United States through contests, producer visits, movie screenings, and other efforts. These initiatives offer interested individuals across the country the opportunity to learn more about and expand fair trade.

This year, join the celebration of both World Fair Trade Day and Fair Trade Month by holding your own event, joining others in your area, sending messages of support, patronizing local fair trade businesses, and creating your own activities!