The Fairtrade Foundation Campaigns Team invites you to take part in a discussion about the future of campaigning for Fairtrade. The discussions will take place online and should last no longer than one and a half hours.
As we approach 20 years since the very first Fair Trade town was created and awarded in Garstang, we have been reflecting on the huge success of Fairtrade Communities. Over the last 20 years they have spearheaded collective grassroots social action for trade justice from local council support, more Fairtrade products on shelves and increased awareness and trust in the Fairtrade Mark to local media coverage and empowered local Fairtrade campaign groups.
We also recognise that in that time the world around us has changed and so has the campaigning landscape for Fairtrade community groups. As a result of feedback from campaigners and this changing landscape, the Foundation is proposing some changes to the Fairtrade Communities scheme.
We have two available dates where the same information will be shared so you can choose which one to attend:
Wednesday 17 November 2021 at 6pm (registration via this link to 17th Nov event)
Thursday 25 November 2021 at 6pm (registration via this page)
Both evenings are open to Fairtrade Community group members from across the country. There will be representation from the Fairtrade Foundation at both of them and additionally from the Scottish Fair Trade Forum at the first session and from Fair Trade Wales at the second session. Spaces are limited to allow time for people to share their views so please do sign up quickly if you would like to come.
These discussions will provide an opportunity for you to hear about the changes proposed in the Fairtrade Communities scheme and to give your feedback.
We would like to explore if the proposed changes cover your campaigning needs and get your views on the practical support you will need from the Foundation for the future of campaigning in local communities. Your views will be used to help us refine the proposal and consider the resources and materials that will be produced going forward to support Fairtrade Community groups.