It’s easy to foster human trafficking without knowing it. Many of the common goods we buy rely on labor trafficking during production. Your slavery footprint is probably larger than you think; take this survey to find out more.
Making more thoughtful consumer choices is an easy way to slow the rise of human trafficking. Here are ten fair trade organizations whose clothing, jewelry, and household items are not only beautiful, but directly support human trafficking survivors and promote a slave-free work environment..
Good Paper is the perfect place to hunt for your next birthday card or thank you note. Designed and created by women who have escaped sex trafficking in the Philippines, these gorgeous paper greetings will double the love you send through the mail.
The colorful handbags and accessories from Malia Designs are responsibly made in Cambodia by human trafficking survivors and other various groups at risk of being exploited. A percentage of their profits is donated to their partner organizations, who are actively involved in the Cambodian efforts to stop human trafficking.
Sudara is working to combat sex trafficking in India by creating fair employment opportunities for women, thus decreasing their vulnerability. Their vibrant loungewear is made in India and each pattern has been inspired by a particular woman’s story.
International Sanctuary, or iSanctuary for short, is a multi-pronged organization who, like LifeWay Network, is focused on enabling survivors to lead lives of purpose and freedom. One aspect of their model is teaching women jewelry-making and paying them a fair wage for it; the products are then sold on their website.
Based in Nashville, Thistle Farms is a two-year residential and advocacy program for women survivors who are taught how to make the sweet-smelling and all-natural bath and home products Thistle Farms is known for. With “Love Heals” stamped on every candle and lotion, they’re making an impact with every whiff.
Another organization dedicated to providing employment for exploited women, the Starfish Project offers a range of career opportunities, including graphic design, photography, and office administration, for human trafficking survivors in Asia, all revolving around their bright, cheerful jewelry line.
Like many of the organizations on this list, Her Future Coalition is combatting human trafficking through education, jobs, and shelter for its victims. Their abstract, geometric jewelry and stunning survivor photographs all support their mission of building a foundation of independence for exploited women.
The brainchild of Brooklynite Jessica Hendricks Yee, the Brave Collection’s delicate jewelry is created by Cambodian artisans. Not only does the jewelry line provide at-risk women with dignified employment, it gives 10% of profits to organizations fighting sex trafficking in Cambodia.
Unlike many fair trade organizations which are focused on a specific region or country, Ten Thousand Villages is making a global impact with a presence in over 30 developing countries. Their offerings, ranging from home decor to kitchenware to accessories, are as varied and interesting as their thousands of makers.
The words “fair trade” often conjure images of coffee, clothing, and jewelry, but electronics present another domain where human exploitation is high. The people behind Fairphone are trying to curb that cycle by offering an ethical smartphone made from conflict-free materials and with workers who are treated fairly.
The fact that human trafficking exists in every community around the world can make addressing it seem insurmountable and daunting, but with a few changes to your consumer choices, you can help stop its spread. Learn more about fair trade at fairtradeusa.org.