Christmas is almost upon us. With about a month until Christmas Day, North Americans are about to go into consumerist overdrive. This is especially true in the United States, as “Black Friday” strikes tomorrow.
I’m as guilty as everyone else at going a little nuts with the consumerism, so I’m not going to sit here and tell you not to shop.
However, since we’ll all likely be doing a bit more shopping than usual this time of year, it’s worth thinking about what we’re spending our money on and where the things we’re buying come from.
One way of helping to make sure that what you’re spending money on this Christmas wasn’t made in a sweatshop is by supporting Just Christmas. Just Christmas is a global fair trade market taking place at the Alberta Avenue Community Hall on Friday and Saturday (November 27 and 28, 2009).
There will be a number of vendors selling fair trade goods from all around the world. Many, if not all, of the vendors are non-profits or charitable organizations, meaning that you’re not only getting cool gifts, but your money is going toward causes that help make the world a better place.
Plus, most of the items will be handcrafted and unique, so you can be sure that no one else will give granny the same thing that you do.
I’m not going to sit here and tell you not to buy DVDs and video games this Christmas. I’d be a hypocrite if I did. But if you feel like picking up a stocking stuffer or two from the Just Christmas market, it certainly wouldn’t hurt.
If you’re in Edmonton this weekend, I suggest you check it out.
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