親しくしている元タイ人講師から新年のプレゼントが送られて来た。タイシルクのスカーフとペルーのアルパカ製スカーフの２枚であった。いずれもFair Tradeの製品である。タイシルクのタグには英語しか書かれていない。おそらく輸出用であると思う。その英語が内容的にも素晴らしいので、以下に引用する。
Ban Na Pho’ = After an exceptional silk weaver presented HM Queen with an exquisite pha-sin(sarong), the weaver’s daughter started a production group to promote their village’s economy by designing modern patterns while maintaining ancient techniques. While this fabulous silk has created much international interest, the group remains a local-run enterprise in which women, some disabled, are kept employed and self-reliant.
Buying this product helps to keep alive Thailand’s rich, diverse craft heritage. Talented women and men meticulosly adapt and develop their indigenous skills to achieve self-reliance for their families and communities. Behind the crafts are fascinating stories of people, many of whom face difficulties. Thai craft links them to you through Fair Trade practices and pricing, ensuring good working conditionns and care for the environment.
(ThaiCraft / Direct from the village / www.thaicraft.org / A Social Enterprise Promoting Fair Trade since 1992)