Mission Statement

Fair Trade Judaica promotes fair trade as a Jewish value through educating the Jewish community, and expanding the production, distribution, and sale of fair trade Judaica products.

Vision

We envision a world in which Jewish consumers recognize fair trade as an expression of core Jewish values, seek out fair trade Judaica products, and use their purchasing power to support thriving communities of artisans around the world.

Fair Trade Judaica is built upon the following values:

• Tzedakah: Supporting artisans, their families and communities to become self-sufficient
• Tikkun Olam: Using our power as Jewish consumers to create a more just trade system
• Community: Creating a FTJ movement in the Jewish community, and building connections between consumers and artisans in support of fair trade
• Integrity: Expressing transparency as an organization and treating producers with respect

Key Objectives

• Provide education and outreach about Fair Trade Judaica, creating a community of Jews committed to fair trade by making the link that fair trade is a Jewish value
• Support artisans by increasing market demand and expanding development of fair trade Judaica products
• Increase the availability and accessibility of fair trade Judaica products by creating and expanding sales channels

Meet our Advisory Board.

How Fair Trade Judaica Got Started

The idea for this website initially grew out of our introduction to the fair trade movement while traveling in Nepal. We were very fortunate to have several opportunities to trek in its beautiful countryside, as well as meet the people and experience their extraordinary generosity.

While preparing for our first trip to Nepal in 2003, we were introduced to the concept of fair trade by reading in a guide book about a fair trade store in Kathmandu. We decided to check it out, and ultimately did 99% of our shopping there! The quality of the products was excellent, we knew where our money was going, and it allowed us an opportunity to meet with people involved in the projects and learn more about their lives.

Upon our return home we became interested in exploring the world of fair trade Judaica; conversations with friends, colleagues, and Judaica stores confirmed that there was much interest in promoting and purchasing fair trade Judaica items, though little was known about it.

Through long and involved Google research, it became clear that there were several Judaica items being made by fair trade producer groups around the world and marketed by non-profit organizations as well as companies, but the selection was limited and finding them was difficult.

Every person we have spoken with who is involved in bringing these beautiful works to us is doing so as a labor of love and a commitment to social and economic justice. It’s been inspiring to hear stories of their travels around the world and of the lives of the artisans who create beauty for our enjoyment and use.

Social Media Intern Opportunity

We are seeking a creative self-starter to promote FTJ’s mission through the development and execution of a social media strategy. This is an excellent opportunity for the right intern to gain valuable experience and to help shape a non-profit start-up committed to social justice in the Jewish community.

Here is the Job Description.

Photos L to R: Mirembe Kawomera, Mercado Global, Sindyana
Copyright © 2007 - 2010 Ilana Schatz and David Lingren. All rights reserved.