By Emily O’Connor
It is estimated that American consumers spent approximately $20 billion on Valentine’s Day in 2016. According to the National Retail Federation, the majority of the holiday purchases consisted of flowers, cards, and candy. However, with the majority of the spending going toward products that get consumed or thrown away within a few days of the holiday, perhaps we ought to rethink the way we are celebrating and spending our collective $20 billion. Furthermore, research has shown that both the chocolate and flower industries participate in widespread exploitation of child and adult workers. Cocoa and flower farm workers often are subject to violence, low wages, dangerous working conditions, and even slavery. As February 14th approaches, it is important for Americans to be mindful of their power as consumers. Below is a recommended list of meaningful Valentine’s gifts from ethical and socially conscious companies who will use your portion of the $20 billion to help address poverty, human trafficking, and other social issues.
Headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts, Prosperity Candles sells high-quality, hand poured candles. This social enterprise and certified B Corp employs refugees who have been resettled in the U.S. and empowers them through employment and job training to build a bright future for themselves and their families.
Working in the Philippines and Rwanda, this organization sells handmade greeting cards that provide an ethical and creative alternative to your standard heart-shaped paper Valentine. The cards are made from recycled paper and provide employment opportunities for formerly trafficked women in the Philippines and young people orphaned by HIV/AIDs in Rwanda. Peruse their wide selection for a witty, and environmentally and socially conscious card.
Committed to producing fair trade chocolate, Equal Exchange works with farmers across Latin America and Africa to craft ethically sourced and organically made products. They offer a range of different types of delicious treats for dark and milk chocolate lovers alike.
This flower company only sells flowers from Fair Trade Certified farms. One World Flowers is committed to being both environmentally sustainable and socially conscious. By purchasing their freshly cut bouquets you are helping to promote economic development in Ecuador.
Made by women rescued from sex trafficking, each piece of jewelry from this social enterprise empowers young women in India with professional opportunities and holistic care services. Affordable and ethically made, Purpose Jewelry provides the opportunity to give a meaningful gift that gives back.
Sources
U.S. News, “Americans to Drop $20 Billion for Valentine’s Day,” http://www.usnews.com/news/blogs/data-mine/2016/02/11/valentines-day-spending-set-for-record-after-economic-progress
Mic, “The Dark Side of Valentine’s Day Flowers and Chocolates: Exploitation of Adults and Children,” https://mic.com/articles/4162/the-dark-side-of-valentine-s-day-flowers-and-chocolates-exploitation-of-adults-and-children#.x2Hy0PALR
