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Years ago we began journeying to further reaches of the world to experience the traditions and wisdoms of indigenous cultures.
Our hearts and souls were deepened beyond our imagination as we were privileged to be a part of many different people’s ways of life. We have been gifted by their love and kindness, altered by their ceremonies, enriched by their wisdoms, and humbled by their simplicity.
Our travels also brought us face to face with the travesties of social, economic, and environmental injustices widespread throughout the world. While these inequalities have clearly originated with the development and impact of Western Culture, it is senseless to point fingers and spout blame; it is equally sensible to adopt a position of responsibility for righting the disparities existent and ongoing today.
We completely understand that commerce is not the ultimate answer. However, we have come to understand that a socially and environmentally just form of commerce is a stepping stone: One that will be the first step of a pathway leading to more solid and stable solutions for a world of justice and equality.
Pico's is our small gesture towards this goal. We believe it is not about finding a good deal or a better deal; it's about ensuring people's lives are a good deal better. At least by shopping smart and spending your dollar wisely you can support prosperity, not poverty.
It is important to understand that, as the world exists today, many villagers around the world would starve without a commercial outlet for their goods. This desperation causes people to pillage their land, expose themselves to toxic conditions, and forsake their children’s education; all in order to sell their goods at poverty inducing prices. This is a vicious and unjust predicament.
Fair trade is one step towards righting this system. Fair trade production promotes equitable and long-term relationships between consumers and producers; provides financial and technical support to producers; pays fair wages in a local context; offers safe and healthy working conditions; guarantees no abuse of child labor; and ensures environmentally sustainable practices. Returns are often invested in community projects, such as health clinics, education and child care.
Fair trade is not charity; it enables communities to become empowered and self-sustaining in ways that also protect their environment. Purchasing fair trade products can actually change the lives of some of the world’s poorest people.
