world-fair-trade-day-second-saturday-in-may-2

World Fair Trade Day Second Saturday In May 2

Imagine stepping into a world where every purchase you make helps uplift communities, ensures fair wages, and promotes sustainable practices. That's the heart and soul of Fair Trade, a movement that's been gaining traction and changing lives across the globe. World Fair Trade Day stands as a testament to this incredible journey, celebrated every second Saturday of May, spotlighting the monumental strides taken towards equitable trade practices. Kicking off in 2001, this day has blossomed from a gathering in eleven countries to a worldwide celebration. It's not just about the feel-good factor of buying ethically; it's a crucial lifeline for producers in developing countries, offering them a fair shot at improving their livelihoods and communities. With roots tracing back to the 1940s, the Fair Trade movement has evolved from a noble idea to a robust system that connects conscious consumers with producers, ensuring that every item tells a story of hope, resilience, and fairness. As we gear up to celebrate, let's not forget the power of our choices and the impact they have on the world stage of trade.

Key Takeaway

World Fair Trade Day is an annual event that celebrates Fair Trade and its positive impact on producers in developing countries.
It aims to raise awareness, promote Fair Trade, and support efforts to improve the livelihoods of producers and build better communities.

Timeline

1989
First official World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) conference
The World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) was formally established as the International Fair Trade Association (IFAT) in 1989, following the first official conference in May 1989 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
1996
Foundation of the European Fair Trade Association (EFTA)
The European Fair Trade Association (EFTA) was established in 1996 by ten fair trade importers from nine European countries. EFTA’s mission is to improve the livelihoods of marginalized producers and workers, particularly in the South, by linking and supporting a network of fair trade organizations.
2001
First World Fair Trade Day
The first World Fair Trade Day was celebrated on May 5, 2001, as a global campaign to educate people about fair trade and its benefits. The event is now held annually on the second Saturday of May.
2004
WFTO Guarantee System
The WFTO Guarantee System was introduced in 2004 to ensure that all members adhere to the organization’s fair trade principles. This system provides a seal of approval for fair trade organizations, allowing consumers to easily identify and support fair trade products and practices.
2009
WFTO’s 20th anniversary and 10th World Fair Trade Day
In 2009, the World Fair Trade Organization celebrated its 20th anniversary and the 10th World Fair Trade Day. The theme for the year was ‘Climate Change and Fair Trade: Two Sides of the Same Coin’.
2013
WFTO Fair Trade Towns Campaign
In 2013, the WFTO launched the Fair Trade Towns Campaign, which encourages local governments, businesses, and citizens to support and promote fair trade. The campaign has led to the establishment of over 2,000 Fair Trade Towns worldwide.
2017
WFTO’s 25th anniversary and 17th World Fair Trade Day
In 2017, the World Fair Trade Organization celebrated its 25th anniversary and the 17th World Fair Trade Day. The theme for the year was ‘Fair Trade: A Tool for Development’.
2022
22nd World Fair Trade Day
The 22nd World Fair Trade Day will be celebrated on May 14, 2022. The theme for the year is ‘Building Equitable Livelihoods’.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Meet-ups: Kick off World Fair Trade Day with community gatherings in local parks or community centers. Here, folks can sip on fair trade coffee and munch on ethically sourced snacks. It's a chance to chat about the importance of fair trade and share stories of how it's making a difference in producers' lives. Think of it as a breakfast bash with a purpose, where every bite and sip is a step towards a fairer world.

  2. Afternoon Advocacy: As the sun climbs higher, why not turn up the heat on raising awareness? Organize workshops or seminars at schools or libraries, where experts and fair trade advocates can dive deep into the nuts and bolts of fair trade principles. Participants can learn about the impact of fair trade on global communities and discover ways to support fair trade in their daily lives. It's like a mini-education vacation, without the need for sunscreen.

  3. Evening Extravaganza: Wrap up the day with a fair trade market or a cultural festival that showcases products and crafts from around the globe. This is the perfect spot for folks to pick up unique, ethically made goods while enjoying live music and performances. It's a shopping spree with soul, where every purchase packs a punch in the fight for fairness and sustainability.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating Fairness and Equality

Who doesn't love a day that's all about promoting fairness and equality? World Fair Trade Day shines a spotlight on the need for fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable practices for producers in developing countries. It's a day when we can all rally behind the idea that everyone deserves a fair shot at success, no matter where they're from. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to learn more about how our buying choices can positively impact communities around the globe.

  • Supporting Sustainable Practices

Let's face it, we all want to leave the planet a bit better than we found it, right? World Fair Trade Day emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in business, showing us that it's totally possible to enjoy quality products without harming the environment. This day encourages businesses and consumers alike to think about the long-term impact of their actions and to choose options that support the health of our planet. It's a win-win for everyone involved!

  • Building Global Communities

There's something special about knowing that your purchase can help build better communities halfway across the world. World Fair Trade Day isn't just about transactions; it's about forming connections and showing solidarity with producers in developing countries. Through fair trade, we can help improve livelihoods, bolster local economies, and even foster a sense of global community. It's a powerful reminder that, together, we can make a huge difference in the lives of others.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
MAY 14 2022
MAY 13 2023
MAY 11 2024
MAY 10 2025
MAY 9 2026
MAY 8 2027
MAY 13 2028

FAQ

What is the theme for the Fair Trade Day 2024?

Every year, the theme of the campaign changes to focus on a specific topic that is dear to the community. For 2024, the theme of the campaign is #BusinessRevolution and takes place on 11 May.

What is the meaning of the Fair Trade Day?

World Fair Trade Day is on the second Saturday of May and its purpose is to celebrate the contributions to the fight against poverty, exploitation, and climate change. The Fair Trade movement is all about ensuring that workers around the globe are treated fairly with decent wages and working conditions.

What is Fair Trade Day May 13?

On May 13, Fair Trade Day will honor the movement for a world in which all laborers are paid more fairly for the work they do and the products they create.

What date is fair trade?

World Fair Trade Day is a global celebration held each year on the second Saturday of May.