Fair trade items sold at ‘Fair Trade Market’ in DUC

Aaron Frasier

Baskets and jewelry from Kenya, pottery from the WKU ceramics department and locally-made gourmet dog biscuits were some items sold at today’s Fair Trade Market at Downing University Center.

The goal of the market was to help change the world through the sales of fair trade items, said Matt Vaughan, president of WKU’s chapter of Americans for an Informed Democracy, in an e-mail.

“It’s not your typical charity,” said Vaughan, who’s a senior from Mexico, Mo. “These items are all made by other countries, and we sell them. The makers then receive a fair price from the items sold.”

AID, a campus organization that works to address certain world issues, such as AIDS and poverty, partnered with the One campaign and BeadForLife to host the market.

Louisville freshman Molly Kapier, who worked at the market, said the event went well, with a long list of sales already by the time she arrived at about 12:45 p.m.

Throughout the day, various teachers and students helped sell the items.

Biology instructor Margaret Bowker said her participation in the event made her feel like she’s helping to change the world.

“It gives me a sense of purpose and fills my life and soul,” Bowker said.