WHEREAS Fair Trade is an organized social movement and market based approach aimed at alleviating global poverty and promoting sustainability, thereby creating opportunities and better trading conditions for economically disadvantaged or marginalized producers.

Fair Trade products are produced in a democratic environment, without forced child labour and without pesticides and herbicides that are proven to be detrimental to the environment.

Toronto is committed to supporting Fair Trade which has produced measureable improvements in the quality of life of millions of individuals in the developing world.

In support of this movement, on Tuesday May 8th, 2012, Fair Trade Toronto officially announces the launch of its Fair Trade Town campaign, coinciding with World Fair Trade Day which occurs the same week. The Fair Trade Town campaign was created to motivate towns and cities to embrace Fair Trade and increase membership to over 1,000 communities worldwide. It is the objective of Fair Trade Toronto to meet all Fair Trade Town requirements and celebrate our achievement on World Fair Trade Day 2013.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2012 as "Fair Trade Day" and encourage residents to support the Fair Trade Town campaign with their everyday purchasing power, and make a positive difference in the lives of millions around the world.