York has now been a Fair Trade City for 20 years – and it is still as committed to the principle now as it was two decades ago.
The status was confirmed back in 2004 thanks to the campaigning of a group of Fair Trade activists.
York’s Fair Trade Forum has marked the achievement with an exhibition at City Screen off Coney Street. You still have time to see it, but hurry – the last day is tomorrow (Friday, 8 March).
York was able to achieve the status of Fair Trade City after City of York Council agreed to pass a resolution that supported the principles.
It also brought in Fair Trade tea and coffee at meetings and in council canteens, as well as ensuring a number of York’s cafes and shops offered a selection of Fair Trade products.
Meanwhile, the launch of the York Fair Trade Forum ensured that the city’s commitment endured.
There are still two shops in York soley dedicated to Fair Trade products – Fairer World on Gillygate and Shared Earth on Minster Gates.
The forum is also celebrating the anniversary in other ways including an invitation-only event at the Mansion House with a number of York’s Fair Trade supporters on the guest list. There will also be Fair Trade stalls at local events and a film showing at South Bank Community Cinema.
To learn more, and to become a member of York Fair Trade Forum, head to their website.