Workers Justice
"We claim all economic systems to be under the judgment of God no less than other facets of the created order. Therefore, we recognize the responsibility of governments to develop and implement sound fiscal and monetary policies that provide for the economic life of individuals and corporate entities and that ensure full employment and adequate incomes with a minimum of inflation. We believe private and public economic enterprises are responsible for the social costs of doing business, such as employment and environmental pollution, and that they should be held accountable for these costs. We support measures that would reduce the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. We further support efforts to revise tax structures and to eliminate governmental support programs that now benefit the wealthy at the expense of other persons." Social Principles ¶163, 2004 United Methodist Book of Discipline.
Sweat Free
A campaign to end child labor and sweatshops internationally. Supporters are encouraged to purchase manufactured goods produced by companies that pay liveable wages.
Child Labor Coalition, The National Labor Coalition
The New York State Labor-Religion Coalition
Vermont Child Labor Education and Action Project
Sweat Free Communities Campaign
Fair Trade
Fair Trade is an equitable and fair partnership between marketers and producers, within the country of origin as well as between nations. A fair trade partnership provides equitable prices for labor and products.
To learn more about Fair Trade, see:
Using Fair-trade Coffee at Fellowship Hour Helps Small Farmers
A Close-Up Look at Fair Trade in the Coffee Lands of El Salvador
UMCOR Promotes Fair Trade Cup of Cocoa
Resolution Regarding Use of Fair Trade Coffee approved at General Conference, Pittsburgh, Penn., May 4, 2004
UMCOR Ensure a Better Life for Others
Just Add Justice: Bringing Fair Trade to Your Community Guide to Fair Trade activism, published by Oxfam America,
Livable Wage
All people have the right to a livable job that meets their basic needs. They have the right to organize into a union and they have the right to work in a respectful work environment.
New York State Labor-Religion Coalition
