The holiday season is in full swing which means it’s time to get gifts for friends and family!

As consumers, we have the power to take a stand against modern day slavery by supporting companies with fair labor practices. After all, unethical brands need us in order to be profitable and continue making sales. If we can help businesses with fair trade policies succeed, we can help create a better world for people in bondage today.

According to the National Retail Federation, the average American spends approximately $700 on holiday gifts each year. Imagine how much change could be made if we only bought ethically produced goods!

I recently read a blog post by Melanie Dale advocating for what she calls the Slave-Free Christmas Challenge. I thought this idea was an amazing way of encouraging consumers to be more conscious of what they purchase!

This holiday season, I challenge you to research what you buy to ensure that the workers who made your gifts are living happy, free lives.

To help you out, I have assembled a list of some wonderful Slave-Free Apparel and Footwear companies. You might also find my list of Top Fashion Brands Avoided by Slave-Free Shoppers to be useful as you shop.

Last but not least, I would like to recommend Divine Chocolate for the chocolate-lovers in your life, Soul Space USA for your fitness fanatic friends, and Odylique for the all the beauty gurus in your family. I love these brands and think you will too!

Best of luck!