Photo by Matheus Viana from Pexels

One of the most effective ways to empower others is by how we spend our money. Shopping is a voting system and every dollar we spend empowers someone. The question is: Who are we empowering?

It’s a good question to sit with. There’s no one to answer to. This is just for you.

When we choose ethical fashion over fast fashion, we empower that business, the creators, and the people behind the scenes. Our money sends many messages at once:

“Hey, I like your product!” This simple message is a confidence booster. As a creator, when your product is liked and wanted, it fuels more creativity. Your dollars alone send this message but feel free to reach out and tell them so yourself.

“Your livelihood matters.” When you support a small business instead of a large corporation, you empower that business to keep going. It might seem like a tiny action purchasing from a small business, but when you do, the creators and makers behind the scenes feel the love. Happy dances all around.

“I stand up for worker’s rights.” When you buy from an ethical business, you vote for healthy working conditions and fair wages for everyone involved in the process. Equality is empowerment.

“I want a more sustainable future.” Supporting businesses that reduce water usage, fossil fuel consumption, and toxic chemicals in their supply chain empowers a more sustainable future for people and for the planet. Ethical and sustainable often work hand-in-hand. A beautiful power duo that we most definitely want to see more of!

If one thing has become evident in 2020 so far, it’s that we are all connected. In this time of staying home, I’ve thought of all the other people all over the globe also staying home. In the immense uncertainty and loneliness, there’s an odd sense of peace. Even though we don’t know what will happen, there’s a global call for us to realize that we are all in this together. May this be the beginning of seeing ourselves in others. May we choose from now on to empower others in every way we can. We send you love at this time. Feel free to chime in on the comment section and talk about businesses you love to empower! Let’s create a beautiful circle of empowerment.

May you be well. May you be at peace.

Written By Jade Paxton for FRANC