Economic justice, both in the U.S. and around the world, is a growing concern and ministry here at First Congregational Chruch. Join us as we explore the injustice of the global economic system and how we can live in a way that is respectful of the producers, their communities and culture, and ourselves. By addressing issues of fair trade practices and goals we hope to raise awareness within our community of CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION which does not just include buying fairly traded products, but addresses AFFLUENZA (over-consumption) as well.
CONSCIOUS CONSUMER PROGRAMS
at First Congregational Church, UCC
40 South Fullerton Avenue - Montclair, NJ 07042
How to Be a Conscious Consumer
(Living a Sweat-free Life)
Through the purchases you make, and those you choose to avoid, you can take your support away from sweatshops and be part of creating an economy that is both fair and respectful.
1. Just Don't Buy It If an item was made in a sweatshop and not a basic need, the best choice is to choose not to buy it. You will save money, space and time. Most importantly you won't be supporting a company with lousy labor practices.
2. Buy Union-made or Secondhand For clothing and household items, check out your local secondhand or consignment stores. When buying new clothing, look for the union label, or purchase from socially responsible businesses listed in Coop America's National Green Pages? www.coopamerica.org For union made/sweatshop-free apparel go to: www.nosweat.com
3. Buy Fair Trade 
Fair Trade ensures healthy working conditions, self-determination, and fair wages for workers. Look for Fair Trade bananas, coffee, tea or chocolate at your grocery store. If they don't carry Fair Trade, submit a request. You can also find a variety of Fair Trade stores and on-line retailers at: www.FairTradeFederation.org.
4. Ask Questions??? If you are unsure about whether a company pays its' employees a living wage and treats them fairly, ASK. Write, e-mail or ask, "Does your company guarantee a safe working environment and that all employees are paid a living wage? Are these policies and your factories monitored by independent sources?"
5. Institutional Fair Trade Purchasing Work with your faith community, University, company, etc. to adopt a sweatshop-free/Fair Trade purchasing policy. Try starting with coffee and tea: Equal Exchange sells Fair Trade coffee, tea, chocolate and sugar www.equalexchange.com
6. Spread the Word Talk or send an e-mail to your friends and family about these issues and local events.
