Fair Trade//Fair Politics on Election’s Eve

On 1 Nov from 7-8:30pm, we are celebrating UCSD becoming the second university in the nation to pass a Fair Trade Policy! Our policy mandates that all new food and vendor contracts require 100% Fair Trade certified coffee, tea and sugar on all locations on campus. Additionally, any vendor on campus that carries any certifiable goods (bananas, rice, chocolates, ice cream etc.) must provide a Fair Trade option. Fair Trade USA Certification ensures that farmers and farm workers are getting living wages - empowering them to lift themselves out of poverty, that their children are going to school - providing safe working conditions without child labor, and enabling farmers to practice sustainable farming without chemicals or depleting resources. Fair Trade cooperatives reflect democratic principles and engage in direct trade. Finally, I’m convinced that the Fair Trade option is always tastier - get a hold of Equal Exchange chocolate bars (my favorite is the 67% Cacao Organic Mint Chocolate with a Delicate Crunch)! You can just taste the love!

This is a huge landmark for our university and uniquely significant because it was accomplished through a five-year, student-led campaign. I’m always in awe of the work of UCSD student activists that have shaped this campus before me to institutionalize global consciousness and accountability of our impact as a university. I can’t wait for what’s next especially as we celebrate the power of the student voice and get the movement going at UCSD! Let’s make it happen - a UC-wide Fair Trade Policy, banning privatized bottled water, and making UCSD Styrofoam-free! What else do you want to see at your university?

So join us in the International House Great Hall, for an evening of free delicious, non-exploitative nomz, fantastic speakers, conversation about the election right around the corner of the day, and live music featuring TONS!