Global Girlfriend

On this day, the Feast of the Epiphany in Roman Catholic tradition, I want to put a plug in for Global Girlfriend. Global Girlfriend (www.globalgirlfriend.com)  was created in 2003 as a means to economically empower third world women by providing them with fair trade markets for their crafts. You can now go to their website under the side bar "New Arrivals" and, for $20, make a donation to assist a women's artisan group buy supplies. Currently there are two groups you can assist, one in Peru and one in India.

My husband is from Ireland, and the Irish celebrate Epiphany as Nollig na mBan (pronounced noh lig na MAHN) which translates to be "The Women's Christmas". Traditionally, women are feted by the men in their lives with tea and goodies, and girlfriends go out together this evening for a last bit of "holiday cheer". More and more, Irish charities are encouraging people to make a donation to third world causes on this day when the three kings were said to have brought gifts to the infant Jesus.

In the spirit of sisterhood, and Nollig na mBan, consider making a contribution today to benefit one of your "global" artisan  "sisters". And then don't forget to treat yourself to a last bit of holiday cheer tonight, with someone you care about!