(GREAT FALLS) Those in the Great Falls area this weekend can support low-income women from other countries who have been affected by human trafficking.
“We believe in helping people in the states, but as global citizens, we think it is important to recognize that slavery still exists, and we do what we can to make an impact and create a world that’s more just and fair for all people,” said Kate Loveland, a representative of a human trafficking organization coming to Great Falls.
Loveland’s group, Mercy Market, will occupy one of the booths at the Great Falls Fair Trade Market on Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art.
“Our groups actually work with women who are being exploited or in human trafficking situations. They teach them how to sew, provide counseling and mental health support, and then these women can start making bags and t-shirts,” Loveland said.
17 countries will be represented at the market. From Thailand to Ecuador, the foreign women support their families through their work with Mercy Market.
“Instead of having to be in sex work or exploitation, they are able to have a dignified way of life and support their own children. Fair trade is about paying people a living wage so they can afford housing and education. We’re really trying to combat human trafficking around the world by partnering with these groups,” Loveland said.
Some of the groups Mercy Market partners with are International Justice Mission and Aizada Imports.
Loveland encourages everyone to come out and support the market.
She said one of the best parts is learning the stories about the products from each vendor.
“Shop and buy gifts — that will be a blessing to whoever they are given to — but also the person who made it,” Loveland said.
