Alternative Economy Program
Download the Alternative Economy Catalogue and Order Form to place your order!
The Mexico Solidarity Network's Alternative Economy Program is built around principles of justice and the search for genuine alternatives to the predominant capitalist model. The Mexico Solidarity Network connects Zapatista cooperatives that produce artisanry and coffee with interns located throughout the United States. Interns receive training in the principles of alternative economy, then set up tables displaying cooperative-produced goods in public places. Interns act as the link between producers and consumers, revealing the human face behind production. Interns may accept donations for the cooperative-produced goods, but there are no set prices. The exchange is based on a genuine link between consumers and producers based on knowledge and mutual respect.
For more information on the Alternative Economy Program, contact the Mexico Solidarity Network at [email protected], or call 773-583-7728.
Alternative Economy - Overview
Introduction
Fair trade is a relatively new concept, a popular response to corporate-centered free trade regimes such as NAFTA. Fair trade has quickly become a sort of catch-all phrase that can includes concepts like fair wages, living wages, sustainability - or simply the opposite of free trade. Within the burgeoning fair trade movement, there is a great deal of latitude regarding definitions and objectives.
Neoliberalism
Mexico - A neoliberal experiment
Introduction
Neoliberalism is the dominant economic, social and political model of our time - the latest phase of capitalism. In the neoliberal era, western-style representative governments have largely abandoned their (at least theoretical) roles as representatives of and mediators among a range of social actors. Joachim Hirsch refers to the "national competitive state" in which government represents the interests of capital at the expense of popular sectors of society.
Zapatismo
The Zapatistas presented themselves to the world on January 1, 1994, though the roots of the rebellion can be traced back 500 years to the European invasion of the Americas. During those five centuries, indigenous communities lost control of historic lands and were often forced into various forms of slavery and/or virtual slavery. Many rebellions occurred during this period, making the Zapatista uprising part of a long history of struggle and resistance. By the late 20th century, indigenous communities in Chiapas lived on the most marginal and isolated lands in the state.
Alternative Economy Internship Program
The Mexico Solidarity Network is looking for students, groups, recent graduates or community organizers who are interested in doing an internship in their city. There is no need to relocate for the internship and you can do it while attending college, high school or even working another job!
Other Fair Trade Links
Where to buy Alternative Economy - Dónde comprar Economia Alternativa:
Rebel Imports http://www.rebelimports.com
Café Campesino http://www.cafecampesino.com
Higher Grounds http://www.javaforjustice.com
Casa Bonampak http://www.casabonampak.com
Pachamama, a World of Artisans http://www.pachamamaworld.com
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| AE order form.pdf | 79.17 KB |
| AE catalogue (with website).pdf | 2.02 MB |