living our values
making
an impact
In celebration of World Fair Trade Day 2012, Handmade Expressions helped a week long Fair Trade Tour that begin in Austin,TX, went up the coast of California and ended at FTF’s annual conference in Seattle, WA. The guest speaker was Lata Kachhawaha (also known as Lata ji). Lata ji is a passionate and inspiring woman from Rajasthan, India who has devoted her life to improving the conditions of rural artisans, particularly women. She helped to found the Society to Uplift Rural Economy (SURE), an NGO based in the dry desert region of Barmer that created the cutwork bags you see here. Lata ji shared her personal story and described in detail SURE’s programs that together promote a holistic strategy for rural development. Having worked in this field for over 25 years, her knowledge and the experiences she shared were incredibly inspiring! “We do this work so there is hope for the next generation,” Lata ji said. Her goal is to see all girls being educated and for traditional craft work to continue in a way that provides a decent livelihood for women and their families.“Change is a slow process,” Lata ji explained. But, Lata ji’s progress proves change is possible.There was deep pride in her voice as she discussed the changes she has seen in communities over the course of her work, particularly when with women’s confidence. This tour fostered a connection between the two ends of the fair trade system – an artisan lead with advocates and retailers and consumers in the USA an importer and wholesaler of artisanal products, Handmade Expressions is in a unique position to reach out in both directions.We were able to strengthen relationships with our retail partners by supporting their outreach initiatives through events. Everyone was appreciative of the unique opportunity and said it helped motivate them in their work for fair trade.
“We do this work so there is hope for the next generation,” - Lata Ji Cutwork Messenger Bag Intricate appliqué on front flap. Functional pockets inside with adjustable strap. 100% cotton. Item Code: A. VKB 307 (Olive) B. VKB 306 (Terra Cotta) Size: 14.5” x 12” x 2.5” MOQ: 2 per color A.
B.
Price: $2200
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