June 4th, 2016 | Chelsea, Quebec. The Municipality of Chelsea has been designated Canada’s 22nd Fair Trade Town, joining a growing movement across the country. There are now over 1,500 Fair Trade Towns in 32 countries around the world.
Through its Fair Trade Town designation, Chelsea, a community of 7,000 residents, is demonstrating its commitment to developing an ethical and sustainable approach by supporting local economies both at home and abroad.
The process started in November 2014, when a small group of concerned citizens got together and formed a committee. Since the official launch of the campaign in May 2015, they have held information sessions and events, gathered signatures from over 400 residents and letters of support from 23 businesses, schools and community groups, raised public awareness through print and social media, and gained press coverage.
Chelsea will celebrate its designation as Canada’s 22nd Fair Trade Town at the Chelsea Farmers’ Market at noon on June 4. Supporters are invited to turn out for a group photo and to enjoy a celebration cake. Grade 6 student Asha Kline will be acknowledged for designing Chelsea’s Fair Trade Town logo, and Mayor Caryl Green will receive the official designation from representatives of Fairtrade Canada.
“On behalf of the Chelsea Council and the entire community, I am pleased to receive the designation of Canada’s 22nd Fair Trade Town. The members of the local committee have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of ethical purchasing practices, both locally and globally. I look forward to working with residents and local businesses to promote and encourage Fair Trade in the choices we make on a daily basis.” — Caryl Green, Mayor of Chelsea
“Becoming a Fair Trade Town is a wonderful expression of our community showing its concern and commitment for our brothers and sisters globally. We have the choice to do something practical to support more equal trading relationships globally by purchasing Fair Trade products. When we help small businesses survive, we build families; strong families will in turn build strong communities.” – Jane Gragtmans, Chair, Village Équitable Chelsea Fair Trade Town
“Chelsea is showing strong commitment from businesses, institutions, the municipality and from dedicated individuals towards social and environmental welfare of their own community and abroad. Congratulations to everyone that invested time and dedication in this journey!” — Éric St-Pierre, Association québécoise du commerce équitable
“For some time now, a number of incredibly committed individuals have been working to promote fair trade. It is therefore an honour to be able to congratulate them on becoming Canada’s 22nd Fair Trade Designated Town.” — Sean McHugh, Executive Director, Canadian Fair Trade Network.
“Last spring I had the pleasure of attending a fair trade event in Chelsea. The town is a great example of how communities can come together and make a difference. Congratulations on becoming Canada’s 22nd Fair Trade Town!” — Mélissa Dubé, Outreach Coordinator, Fairtrade Canada