FROM THE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION COORDINATOR'S DESK
With Easter almost upon us, supermarket shelves are full with delicious chocolatey treats. The challenge for us as consumers is finding a “good egg” – one that is ethically sourced and manufactured.
The chocolate industry has long been tainted by reports of forced labour and slavery, with estimates of 1.56 million children involved in hazardous work in cocoa production in West Africa (which produces most of the world’s cocoa), with many forced to work long hours, use dangerous equipment, and endure physical and emotional abuse.
“Every person ought to have the awareness that purchasing is always a moral – and not simply an economic – act.” Pope Francis
Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans (ACRATH) this year is encouraging Australians to join the campaign for Slavery Free Easter eggs and chocolate.
View the link below for tips and further information - How Sweet Is My Chocolate?
Also, consider not buying something that is overly packaged. Lots of Easter eggs come encased in several layers of foil, cardboard and plastic – each of which come with an environmental and often human cost of their own. Remember to recycle your foil.
.