The movement was officially one week old when I posted this. I understand your skepticism and would encourage you to try and have a bit of patience as the work gets underway. The list of participants is currently up on all the organizing committee sites, as well as on our own blog: http://smallfarmersbigchange.coop/2012/01/10/more-news-from-the-north-america-ft-stakeholder-council/ In addition to the names of Council participants are ways in which folks not on the Council can participate. I’m sure that the lead organizers are open to suggestions and feedback. Thanks again for your interest, and of course, feel free to weigh in as things proceed.

Thanks!

Phyllis

I am sorry that you feel this way. While it may appear at first glance that what is going on is simply organizations fighting over who does things “better” as you say, in fact very real issues are at stake.

We firmly believe that TransFair’s Fair Trade for All initiative will put small farmer organizations out of business and that lowering standards will adversely affect producers, mislead consumers and jeopardize Fair Trade in the long run. When you believe this strongly about the Fair Trade mission and your small farmer co-op partners, it seems to me that remaining silent would be the far greater offense.

I encourage you to dig a little deeper by reading the various statements of producers, students, fair trade organizations, and other buyers listed above.

Phyllis

Best wishes for 2012

Steven

Ken Hargesheimer