Shop Ethical This Black Friday

Words by Caroline Spain

Black Friday doesn’t exactly register as the epitome of an ethical and moral holiday. Thanksgiving promotes gratitude, Christmas promotes compassion and goodwill, Fourth of July promotes pride and patriotism… Black Friday? Capitalism and materialism. However, if you’re looking to relieve some of that guilt while still indulging your inner shopaholic- here is a list of companies with a moral bonus.

The Citizenry

“Every dollar supports artisan entrepreneurs around the world.”

Citizenry prides themselves on matching their customer’s aesthetic with their journey. They are strong believers in the idea that each individual they serve deserves a space that is representative of their identity. We live in an age where you can order anything, exactly as you want it, all the time. The world has never been more at our fingertips, which is why it is important to buy with integrity. Citizenry sources all of their products from artisans that they seek out and maintain personal relationships with. They place importance on eliminating a middle man so that they can ensure all goods purchased are handmade, ethically made, and peak quality. When you purchase from citizenry you can rest easy knowing that your money goes to a community of citizens who pride themselves in their craft.

The Little Market

“Design for the greater good.”

The Little Market offers everything from glassware to handbags… the best part? They provide the option to “shop by cause”. Each artisan crafts their product with the intention of serving a disenfranchised population. Whether it is blankets created by women affected by the HIV epidemic or candles crafted by refugees seeking asylum and normalcy. A purchase from The Little Market will leave you with not only a beautifully handcrafted good but one with purpose and benevolence.

Rescue.org

“When home is far away, rescue is close by.”

Sometimes, the greatest gift you can give is to GIVE. Look no further than rescue.org. This organization allows its customers to handpick “rescue gifts” for those in need. The options are, but not limited to, baby kits, education services, emergency food, immunizations, and refugee survival kits. This service provides its customers with the extremely personal experience of choosing causes and conflicts that are close to their hearts.

If the holidays resemble selflessness, gratitude, and community… why not let that reflect in your purchases? Instead consider, giving while getting.