I knit. I knit a lot. When I'm neglecting this blog, it's mostly because I'm knitting or doing something yarn-related. And then there's the mounds of hours I spend with the news. Contrary to what you might think, these two go together well, especially if you can knit and read at the same time.
Naturally, I get excited when I can worm knitting into a conversation (or post) about world events. Behold, Peace Fleece.
The Peace Fleece office is a barn on a sheep farm in Maine. Peter Hagerty and his wife Marty Tracy started buying wool from the Soviet Union back in 1985 in hopes that through trade they could help diffuse the threat of nuclear war. Since then they have worked with shepherds in Russia, Kyrgyzia, Israel and the West Bank, as well as in Montana, Ohio, Texas and Maine. By working with people who tend livestock every day, they hope to find a common ground that slowly leads to mutual understanding and economic interdependence.Of special interest right now is their support for Neve Shalom/Wahat al Salam and their Baghdad Blue yarn, the entire proceeds of which go to NS/WAL as well as Seeds of Peace.
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Peace Fleece sells knitting yarns as well as knitting and felting accessories. Many of the people with whom Peace Fleece works overseas are in the midst of political, social or economic crisis and some are living in a war zone. Knitting is essential to the economic and emotional survival of these people. The Palestinian and Israeli shepherds from whose sheep come the Mid-East yarn, face terrorism on a daily basis. The Russian farmers and craftspeople with whom we work confront a daily dose of chaos and despair as well.
Non-knitters, never fear, they sell custom-made sweaters and ready-made socks, mittens, and stockings. They have buttons, stuffing, books, keychains. Or buy a learn to knit kit, and figure out why my hands are never idle.
Fair trade, helping out places in turmoil, and pretty pretty yarn to pet. I love Peace Fleece.
posted by Janis @ 18:05,
