In an effort to promote better trading conditions and allow students to support higher social and environmental standards, the Student Government Association’s Sustainability Committee recently introduced a resolution asking the MSU Bookstore to carry Fair Trade clothing options.

Fair Trade companies differ from many manufacturers in that they pay their employees a “living wage”, which means employees are paid enough to provide food, clean water, clothing, shelter, education, and medical care for themselves and their families.

Several other universities have taken actions similar to what SGA is proposing, by making Fair Trade clothing options available in addition to the apparel currently offered. Director of Sustainability Kara Andres explained that while Fair Trade options are sometimes more expensive than other apparel, many students are interested in the opportunity to promote better working conditions for employees overseas.

The MSU Bookstore has already expressed interest in carrying Fair Trade clothing, listing Alta Gracia, a Fair Trade company specializing in university apparel, as a possible provider.

For more information, please contact Paige Oxendine, Chief Communications Officer, at Oxendine100@live.missouristate.edu.