Thursday, July 22, 2010

Everyday Justice -- Julie Clawson

I really enjoyed this book, and will refer back to it constantly.
On the basis on being a people whose aim is justice, the author looks at different choices we make that affect others around the world.  She devotes a chapter to a range of topics such as coffee, chocolate, clothes, food, gas and other things.
I really like the way she laid a foundation of why we should be pursuing this, but also enjoyed her reasonable approach, and caution that changes need to be applied a little at a time for it to be manageable and sustainable.
Each chapter ended with other resources such as movies, documentaries, books and websites that were related to the topic.  I found this very helpful and used her suggestions a lot.
I believe any person who cares about others should read this book...it has changed my life!

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Black Gold

We watched this doco the other night. Was a good message but didn't flow as well as other documentaries that we have watched lately. Maybe because I have already read and seen a lot about this subject it wasn't such a surprise to me.
Nevertheless it is still important to get this story out and help show the FULL story. Our demand to have what we want cheaply is to the  detriment of other peoples lives and wellbeing.
Aid is a pathetic band aid that has been shown as a generous and caring act but is nothing more than a way to appease the consciences of the Western world who need people in poverty to fuel their wants and support their extravagant lifestyle.
I am thankful for people who are fighting for fair trade and sustainable farming practices.
Every purchase counts -- vote with your wallets