2005 Synod Assembly

Resolution 2005-01:

Justice for the Poor Through Fair Trade

Passed

WHEREAS, coffee is one of the most heavily traded commodities in the world and is a leading source of income for the developing world; and

WHEREAS, the majority of small coffee farmers living in rural communities in some of the poorest countries in the world do not earn a living wage in the conventional coffee trade; and

WHEREAS, Lutheran World Relief is a national leader in connecting fair trade and faith; and

WHEREAS, the LWR Coffee Project with Equal Exchange links consumer choices with the Christian commitment to justice for the poor; and

WHEREAS, Equal Exchange seeks to balance the inequities found in the conventional coffee trade; and

WHEREAS, Equal Exchange pays a fair price to the farmer, including a guaranteed minimum when market prices are low and above market premiums for quality and certified organic coffee; and

WHEREAS, Equal Exchange encourages ecologically sustainable farming practices that help build a long-term economic base for farmers while promoting community health and protecting the environment; and

WHEREAS Lutherans have long been big consumers of coffee;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that ELCA congregations in the Southeastern Minnesota Synod support fair trade standards by  voluntarily purchasing and using Equal Exchange products, especially coffee, for congregational events.

Submitted by Southeastern Minnesota Synod Women of the ELCA board members Margaret Blume and Marie Tesch. Passed at WELCA Synodical Board meeting January 29, 2005.

Continue to Resolution 2005-02

Return to 2005 Resolution List