We all buy things. These things are generally made by other people. As buyers-of-things, we have some responsibility to understand who's making our things, and why they're making them.

As people, we have a responsibility to other people. So we ask a few basic questions:

"Are the makers-of-goods earning a decent living? Are they able to feed their families, send their children to school, and be productive members of their communities? Or are they de-facto slaves to a boss (perhaps a large corporation, perhaps a local landlord) who exploits them for their cheap labor?"

And then, "Do I want to buy something that's been made by a person who is being exploited?"

Because, after all, spending your hard-earned dollars on something is the best way to show your approval for where that product came from. And I'm pretty sure you don't approve of the exploitation of other human beings.

So why not seek out products that come from a positive background? By shopping local and buying Fair Trade, you can support entrepreneurs from your community and artisans from developing countries who hand-make so many of the things you use every day- from your coffee mug and cereal bowl in the morning, to the jewelry you put on before you leave the house, to the messenger bag you sling over your shoulder for the bike ride to work... well, you get the picture.

Many of the things you purchase and use every day can either make you feel guilty, or can make you feel good. And you deserve to feel good. So shop local and support Fair Trade!

TransFair USA, www.transfairusa.org

The Fair Trade Federation, www.fairtradefederation.org

During college, Brandi was very politically active and worked with a number of anti-war organizations. She graduated in 2005 with a degree in International Relations. Until recently, she hadn't been able to combine her love of handcrafted art with her passion for politics.  

Then came the idea for The Crow's Nest, a business devoted to principles of economic justice. Featuring Fair Trade goods and locally-created wearable art, The Crow's Nest brings quality handcrafted goods to people all over the Bay Area and helps to educate the public about the importance of knowing where your money goes when you shop.

Brandi is now working with a partner to open up a retail store in San Francisco. This store will feature an array of functional art (creative, handmade goods you can use every day- like jewelry, ceramics, and kid's toys). All merchandise will either be sourced from Fair Trade cooperatives or will be made by local artists. And every item will come with information about who created it, so you can really know you're doing something good by shopping with us.