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December 9th, 2015 
Awake Goy 
Print FriendlyFrom Flush the TPP – If they become law, international treaties like the TransPacific Partnership (TPP), TransAtlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Trade-in-Services Agreement (TISA) will fundamentally alter the global economy and global governance in a way that further empowers transnational corporations while decreasing the power of nation-states and people.
These treaties will create a permanent path that makes corporate profit more important than the needs of people and protection of the planet.
They will drive a global race to the bottom in wages and worker rights, food safety, internet freedom, access to health care, protection of the environment and more. It is up to us to organize and build power to stop the race to the bottom in its tracks!
Treaties such as TPP, TTIP and TISA exemplify the fundamental struggle of our era – people power versus corporate power.
People around the world are fighting these agreements. There have been large protests, international days of action and petitioning of governments. As we continue those tactics, it is time to add another tactic – the Buycott. It is time to use a language that multinational corporations and corrupt politicians understand – money.
The Buycott is a tactic that people all over the world can use. It is not only a form of resistance, of non-cooperation, but it is also a way to create the necessary alternative – trade that lifts communities up and protects the planet as a first priority.
Like other boycotts and divestments, the Buycott will grow over time to have a significant impact, if we build and nurture it.
Join the Buycott for Trade Justice. CLICK HERE.
Here are the demands:
1. International trade treaties must be restricted to matters of trade, not expansions of corporate power such as deregulation, privatization and greater rights for investors than people.
2. International trade treaties must contain enforceable standards that protect workers, the health and safety of communities and the integrity of the planet, as well as including provisions that address the climate crisis.
3. International trade treaties must be negotiated in a way that is transparent and that guarantees meaningful participation by civil society.
In short, the Buycott for Trade Justice will continue until trade treaties put people and the planet before corporate profits.
See the TRADE Act for one example of a solution to the current trade crisis.
Here is how it works:
The goal of the Buycott for Trade Justice is for individuals, businesses and institutions to commit to only buy (or as much as possible buy) either;
1. Used products (helpful for items that are not yet made locally),
2. Locally made products (preferably those that are made by entities that respect workers and the environment), or
3. Fair trade products (see “what is fair trade” below)
To help you, click here for resources to help you find used products, local products and fair trade products.
What if I can’t find what I need?
This is a situation where you will have to decide on a case-by-case basis what to do. This struggle against globalization that exploits people and the planet is a fundamental one. All great struggles throughout history have required sacrifice. You will need to ask yourself if you really need what you are planning to buy. Can you wait? Some things are not negotiable such as life-saving medication. Some things, such as a luxury item, can wait.
What is Fair Trade?
Fair trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering mutually agreed upon trading conditions to and securing the rights of marginalized producers and workers.
Click here for more information about Fair Trade.
Join the Buycott for Trade Justice. CLICK HERE.
Sign your organization on as an endorser of the Buycott for Trade Justice. CLICK HERE.
Source Article from https://www.popularresistance.org/join-the-buycott-for-trade-justice/
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