Not only does October bring Halloween, but it is also Fair Trade Month. Thumbprint Artifacts is very proud to celebrate this October as a member of the Fair Trade Federation (FTF) family! 
What does that mean to you?
Fair trade is an approach to business based on dialogue, transparency, and respect that seeks to create greater equity in the international trading system.
Fair trade supports craftspeople in developing countries who are socially and economically marginalized. These producers often face steep hurdles in finding markets and customers for their goods. 
One of the Fair Trade ‘myths’ is that Fair trade siphons off American jobs to other countries. The reality is that Fair trade seeks to improve the lives of the poorest of the poor who frequently lack alternative sources of income. Most fair trade craft products stem from cultures and traditions which are not represented in North America, such as the hand made and hand painted candles and ceramics that we represent, made by Kapula in South Africa.
And as North American fair trade and successful small businesses grow, such as Thumbprint Artifacts, we employ more and more individuals in our own communities! So it is a win – win!
Kapula hires and trains primarily women, most of whom are single moms, helping them to move to self sufficiency and provide for themselves and their families. We are also proud that Kapula Candles & Ceramics is a member of the World Fair Trade Organsation (WFTO).
So this month, think about not only what you want to be for Halloween....but also making a Fair Trade purchase – they are products and gifts that keep on giving!
