While the Trump administration demonizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and many large corporations fold to political pressure by walking back prior commitments to support minority-owned businesses in their stores and supply chains, Green America’s Green Business Network® members are preserving and celebrating their heritage. By supporting artisans, upholding traditional practices, and promoting fair trade, they sustain cultural identities while fostering economic resilience and empowering communities. Their efforts are increasingly vital given the ongoing impact of the administration’s hostility to immigrant communities and providing foreign aid.
Grounds for Change merges a passion for coffee with a commitment to sustainability and social equity. Offering certified organic, fair-trade coffee, they support small-scale farmers in Guatemala, Mexico, and Colombia. By promoting traditional farming methods that respect the land and community, Grounds for Change uplifts these farming cultures while fostering a sustainable future for both people and the environment. Kitsap County, Washington | Ships Worldwide | groundsforchange.com
Gilden Tree celebrates cultural craftsmanship through its handcrafted personal care products, including soaps, lotions, and bath accessories. Collaborating with artisans from regions like the Mediterranean and Asia, the company preserves time-honored techniques in soap-making and skincare. Their high-quality offerings not only reflect these traditions but also provide economic support to the artisans behind them. Omaha, Nebraska | Ships Worldwide | gildentree.com
Velasquez Family Coffee celebrates its Guatemalan roots by producing premium, ethically sourced coffee grown on their family farm in the highlands of Guatemala. Using sustainable, traditional methods passed down for generations, the family prioritizes environmental stewardship, community well-being, and quality. By paying fair wages to farmers and fostering long-term relationships, they ensure their cultural legacy and coffee expertise endure. Comayagua, Honduras | Ships Worldwide | vfamilycoffee.com
Prabhuji’s Gifts honors the spiritual traditions of India by offering an array of products inspired by Hinduism, Buddhism, and other practices. From incense and jewelry to meditative tools and clothing, their offerings reflect the depth of Indian cultural heritage. Through fair trade partnerships, they support artisans creating these handcrafted items, preserving centuries-old techniques while promoting mindfulness and peace. Catskill Mountains, New York | Ships Worldwide | prabhujigifts.com
Mayan Hands works to sustain the cultural richness of Guatemala’s Mayan communities by providing fair wages to artisans crafting traditional woven textiles, pottery, and handmade goods. By emphasizing the use of natural dyes and intricate weaving techniques, the organization helps preserve the artistic traditions and vibrant patterns unique to Mayan culture. Their efforts also strengthen the local economy and empower Indigenous artisans. Guatemalan Highlands | Ships Worldwide | mayanhands.org
African Market Baskets showcases the artistry and cultural heritage of African weaving traditions. Each basket is a testament to generations of craftsmanship, and the company’s focus on fair wages empowers women artisans while celebrating their skills. Through these partnerships, African Market Baskets helps preserve and share the diverse weaving techniques and artistry that are central to African culture. Upper East Ghana | Ships Worldwide | africanmarketbaskets.com
Minga Fair Trade Imports highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of Latin American artisans by offering handmade goods such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry. Their commitment to fair trade ensures artisans receive equitable pay, preserving traditional skills and driving economic growth within Indigenous communities. By supporting marginalized groups, Minga champions cultural heritage and sustainable development in the region. South America | Ships Worldwide to Retailers | mingaimports.com
Seeds to Sew International uplifts women and communities in East Africa through the creation and sale of handcrafted textiles, clothing, and accessories. Their mission focuses on celebrating African heritage, preserving traditional sewing techniques, and fostering sustainable practices. By providing fair wages and educational opportunities, the organization empowers women and promotes community development. Hopewell, New Jersey | USA Shipping | seedstosew.org
Canaan Palestine honors Palestinian traditions by supporting local artisans and sustainable practices in the West Bank. Through the sale of handmade olive wood carvings, intricate embroidery, olive oil, and other crafts, they ensure that Palestinian heritage thrives while providing vital income for families. Their commitment to fair trade guarantees artisans fair compensation and their products share the rich stories, culture, and artistry of Palestine with the world. Burqin, Palestine | Ships worldwide | canaanpalestine.com
Friends of the Third World Inc. supports artisans from developing nations by offering a marketplace for handcrafted goods from various cultures in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. By focusing on fair trade practices, they ensure artisans receive equitable pay while safeguarding the unique artistic techniques and cultural identities that define their communities. Fort Wayne, Indiana | Ships Worldwide |
friendsofthethirdworld.org
