who, what and why...
la mano is a social enterprise that works directly with women's cooperatives, indigenous organizations and small-scale cottage industry in Chiapas & Oaxaca, Mexico, acting as a bridge between these communities and the growing number of Conscious Consumers in Canada who are seeking a broader range of ethically traded products.
la mano seeks to balance the preservation of traditional weaving techniques with cutting-edge contemporary designs. Products combine impeccable quality with striking beauty, and the honouring of a rich history of backstrap and pedal loom weaving from Chiapas & Oaxaca Mexico.
la mano embodies principles of Fair & Direct Trade, and ensures that artisans are being paid a just and dignified price for their work. All pieces are created from natural fibres (cotton & wool) and are purchased directly from the artisans and artisan cooperatives where they are made.
the mission: to support the dignity and preservation of culture and traditional livelihoods of woman and indigenous peoples through the ethical trade of beautifully handcrafted artisan textiles & products, while simultaneously raising the consciousness and contributing to the integrity of consumers in the Global North.
la mano’s work is guided by the principles of partnership, respect, community, dignity, integrity, quality, and ethics.
~ We will never sacrifice ethics, quality or dignity for profit ~
We seek the highest quality textiles, while prioritizing partnerships with artisan cooperatives and collectives who face considerable social & economic vulnerability, and experience multiple barriers to market access.
Committed to principles of Ethical and Direct Trade, we ensure that the maximum market value for the products goes directly to the artisans, and partner with organizations who also implement educational, empowerment and capacity-building initiatives in their communities.
Working with indigenous women's fair trade weaving cooperatives for more than 8 years, and building real relationships with producers and women's organizations, jennifer faith boundy (la mano's founder) has a genuine passion for working to realize the objectives of sustainable trade. Based in Vancouver, BC, jennifer travels regularly to Mexico to forge and strengthen relationships with artisans, cooperatives, and organizations, to acquire pieces from producers who otherwise experience multiple barriers to market access and face significant challenges in preserving their culture, sustainable livelihoods, land and traditions.
Not only does la mano attempt to achieve these objectives through the sale and promotion of artisan works, but is continually seeking innovative ways to support the work of its artisan producers. la mano's founder has organized 4 Canadian speaking tours for members of an indigenous women's fair trade weaving cooperative. A critical aspect of the work that is done is educating Canadian communities and consumers about women's lives, and the connection that we share that underlies trade relationships...
Visit la mano's Facebook page for pictures of past tours and events. 'Like' la mano's FB Page to get regular updates of events where you can listen the cooperative representatives speak and even demonstrate weaving on the backstrap loom!
Choosing to purchase la mano artisan textiles has
a profound impact on women & indigenous communities, including:
- supporting the economic autonomy of women and indigenous peoples -
- assisting in the preservation of culture and traditional livelihoods -
- contributing to local community economic development -
- increasing the viability of small scale production -
- ensuring that artisans are paid a fair price for their work -
- supporting communities to maintain a stronghold on their land and on their identities-