There are some striking similarities between what’s happening in the Fair Trade movement today with the George Bush effect on the 2008 elections. Is Fair Trade USA having that same effect? Are they creating the momentum for a fundamental shift, from We to I? Are WE now in danger of losing ourselves?

The newly renamed “Fair Trade USA,” formerly known as TransFair USA, celebrates Fair Trade month each October. This year’s theme is “Every Purchase Matters,” and as a believer in thoughtful consumption, I embrace that idea on many different levels. I wonder what fellow conscious consumers like you think the theme means? How and why are you celebrating Fair Trade this month? Let us know with comments.

Brewing tensions among fair trade labeling organizations doesn’t appear to be dampening this year’s Fair Trade Month festivities. Fair Trade Month, organized by Fair Trade USA, is a month long campaign to promote awareness of the movement and fair trade certified products in the US. Fair Trade USA and FT organizations alike are joining together to celebrate the 7th annual Fair Trade Month.