Our "Give to Gain" blog series for Women’s Month series continues with a focus on the women who work for CORR–The Jute Works in Dhaka, Bangladesh. We've always wanted to share more about our most popular product, bread warmers! These are made by two groups—basket weavers and terracotta clay potters. Because they are given dignified work, they can enjoy the everyday things we often take for granted here in the U.S. We are grateful to Rita Roselin Costa, the director of CORR, for sharing the long history of this change-making organization in Bangladesh.
When did you begin your company, and what inspired you to get started?
CORR–The Jute Works was founded in 1973, after the Bangladesh Liberation War. [We had] a thought to improve the living conditions of the people affected by war, especially the widows and marginalized women of the society. [We wanted to] create income generation opportunities for them.
What were you hoping to “give” in those early days?
To make them feel that they are not alone. We provided awareness, skills, and hope by involving them in income generation activities which enhanced their social dignity.
How has your impact grown since then?
We have more than 6,000 women artisans from 257 groups with medical [care], education, and food for their families. They have learned about their environmental responsibilities and [strengthened their confidence]. We have “Eye Camp,” a health awareness program organized for the artisans which provides free vision screening and glasses.
Fair trade workplaces are built on collaboration and shared success. What does a typical day look like for the artisans?
Artisans start their days with fulfilling their household activities and sending their children to school and husband to work. Then [they] start their crafts work. They love to do the work and now feel that they are a valuable part of the family and society.
Women contribute the financial situation of the family besides the regular household work. The artisans get different kinds of training like skill development, leadership development, flexible schedules, and safe workplace.
How is this different from the alternatives women might otherwise face in Dhaka and surrounding areas?
There is limited income generation opportunities and insufficient sanitation exists outside of Dhaka. Through development and awareness training they can ensure nutrition, sanitation, support education opportunities for family members, healthcare access, leadership roles.
“Give to Gain” reminds us that when women are supported, entire communities benefit. What intentional actions does your organization take to foster gender parity and ensure women feel valued and equal?
Through earnings they are contributing to their family income and the members of the family recognize them as an important member. They are able to raise their voice in the family and society. They are also the part of decision making in the family and community. They are able to lead in the artisans’ groups and society as well.
What positive changes have you seen in families and communities as a result?
Now the artisans can take part in decision making in the families and communities. They are now aware about education, the nutrition, and sanitation for all. They eat a full meal three times a day and their family [is healthier]. They are sending their children to schools and higher education. They are included in different committees in the community. They are happy about their condition in life, they are enjoying festivals and wearing colorful clothes.
For the next generation of change-makers: What advice would you give to girls and young women who want to take action for causes they care about?
Develop themselves with proper education and work for betterment of the society, especially for [those in need]. Take an active role in development activities of the marginalized people to ensure the income generation and community services.
Is there a woman artisan whose story reminds you why this work matters?
Meet Shefali Das:
“I am Shefali Das, I have been working with Jute Works for 27 years. We love working with clay. Our family runs on clay work . . . If we have regular work, we don’t have to take out loans. This job supports our family. I educated my son. I repaired my house. I can visit a doctor. If something needs to be done in the family, I can do it. I have ducks and chickens. The office has given me trees, and my children eat the fruit from the trees. My family now values me because of my work.”
We at Fair Trade Winds are proud to work with CORR and support their work with so many women who are building brighter futures for themselves and their families.