The Madison Common Council approved a resolution supporting fair trade by Madison businesses at its meeting Tuesday.
The resolution encourages the city administration and its catering contractors to purchase fair-trade products. It also supports publicizing fair-trade issues and promoting fair trade at local vendors.
Members of the student organization Wisconsin Student Public Interest Research Group were present to support the resolution, which was co-sponsored by Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, and Ald. Bryon Eagon, District 8.
According to WISPIRG member Erica Symonds, WISPIRG's Fair Trade Campaign and the Madison Fair Trade Coalition have worked toward passing citywide fair-trade legislation for over two years.
""This is great because it encourages local businesses, many of which sell fair-trade products,"" Symonds said. ""The passing of this resolution pinpoints Madison as a leader in the fair-trade movement.""
WISPIRG member Allie Gardner said Madison has now become the 16th fair-trade city in the nation and joins Milwaukee on the list.
Eagon said he encourages students to stay involved in this issue and other city issues.
""Please don't be a stranger ... to city government, because your voices are important, and, as you can see tonight, they can make a big difference,"" he said.
Verveer mentioned WISPIRG members will be working on a sweatshop-free ordinance for apparel, clothing and shoes in the future.
Council members also requested further recommendations from the Madison Plan Commission on rezoning of Gordon Commons. The proposal would approve construction of a new cafeteria and green space as well as eventual demolition of the current building.
The Plan Commission will meet April 20 to discuss the project.
