Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Lawrence, Kansas

WHEREAS:   The City of Lawrence, Kansas recognizes and supports the promotion of Fair Trade practices and principles; and

WHEREAS:   The City hereby desires to express its support for sustainable and equitable commerce, the well-being of small farmers and producers, and as a community of consumers, we have a responsibility to be cognizant of the impact that our consumption has on the communities that produce the goods that we purchase; and

WHEREAS:   Fairly traded products provide fair prices for farmers and artisans; direct trade relationships with producers; decent working and living conditions for workers; investment in local economies; and environmentally sustainable activities and practices; and

WHEREAS:   Fair Trade is an innovative market strategy, the purpose of which is to revolutionize commerce and provide consumers with the opportunity to make a positive social impact in communities around the world through:  

1. encouraging consumers to pay producers of fair trade products a fair price for their goods,  

2. promoting direct, long term trade relationships between producers and importers,

3. providing incentives for environmentally sustainable production strategies; and

WHEREAS:   The City of Lawrence has the opportunity to encourage Fair Trade for the community and demonstrate social awareness for other cities to follow.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Amyx, Mayor of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, do hereby proclaim the City of Lawrence as a

“fair trade town usa”

                                                          Mike Amyx, Mayor

March 10, 2015