Growing up, I always knew that I was different, being an African-American woman, I was made fun of by white students at my school and at the same time spent holidays with family being told I was too white. I didn't fit in with any of the cultures I came from or was surrounded by. Once I started work, I was passed over for growth opportunities for things like my hair texture. Even though I had compassionate co-workers, no one there could relate to my experiences. I felt invisible and as if no one saw or cared to see my point of reference or what I could offer the world.
Fair Trade provides opportunities to other marginalized groups that have challenges due their background. Fair Trade gives people the ability to share their point of view or culture or mix of cultures and to be seen. It gives a way for a people to take back some of their power that may have been taken through systemic racism, or create power in a place that hasn't developed enough to give them any.
Working hand in hand with Fair Trade LA is a tangible way for me to advance people like myself into a better life for themselves and their families. Join me in this fundraiser as we advance the Fair Trade Movement in Los Angeles and around the globe.
