Highlights from our 2026 Summit
Paul Jones, Vice Chair of New Communities at Cypress Pond, leading a workshop on Civil Rights and Land Ownership.
Reflecting on a Decade of Connection
In an increasingly virtual world, the annual Equal Exchange Summit is an in-person experience that aims to build lasting community connections.
We’ve been hosting Citizen-Consumer Summits for a decade, and this year felt especially meaningful. Our tenth year of organizing coincided with the 40th anniversary of Equal Exchange—40 years of taking risks to build an alternative model and a more just and sustainable food system.
More than 200 passionate people gathered on this occasion to reflect on what we’ve learned and discuss how we can work together to meet present challenges.
The international cooperative ecosystem we’ve built was represented in the room: worker-owners from Equal Exchange U.S., Equal Exchange U.K., and La Siembra in Canada, along with Citizen-Consumers from across the U.S., food Co-op leaders, and representatives from farmer groups both domestic and abroad.
Santiago Paz Lopez’s keynote address.
The weekend kicked off on Thursday evening with a moving screening of American Agitators, hosted by former longtime Equal Exchange Co-Director Rob Everts, which sparked reflection on the history of organizing for social change in the U.S.
Friday began with a powerful keynote from Santiago Paz Lopez, who shared the triumphs and honest challenges faced by Norandino, the coffee and cacao farming cooperative he represents in Peru.
The group then discussed a variety of topics—highlights include:
The Congo Coffee Project and the work of the Panzi Foundation.
Insights from food co-ops on the negative effects of the consolidated grocery market.
The importance of independence in the organic food sector as highlighted by the Cornucopia Institute.
Updates on our Small Farmer Fund initiatives.
Reflections on Equal Exchange’s 40 years of pioneering change.
Insights from church organizer Carol Bjelland on 25 years of Fair Trade Ministry and what it means to her to sell Equal Exchange products in her congregation.
A new campaign aimed at mobilizing our network to preserve democracy in the upcoming midterm elections.
Stephanie Rapp, Director of Development at the Panzi Foundation, leading a workshop on supporting survivors of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
We concluded the day with a thoughtful discussion led by Rink Dickinson and Leif Rawson-Ahern, focusing on Equal Exchange and our future. We heard reflections and deep gratitude from our community for what we have built together over the last decade of organizing.
Rink Dickinson, Equal Exchange Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director
Some reflections from participants:
“I left feeling incredibly inspired by the connections made and the unique perspectives shared by the presenters and worker-owners. Thank you for the experience.”
“It was meaningful to be there with a multigenerational and international group of people who see that Equal Exchange Fair Trade can bring justice and equity across the world.”
“The Summit was amazing. Beginning with the keynote speaker, I learned so much. As usual, the food was delicious and varied, the dorm rooms were adequate, and the workshops were terrific. I am so glad Equal is diving into politics, however lightly. The times demand it! People from across the globe were so giving and loving. I even got to dance a little salsa!”
“This is a wonderful networking and learning event that allows participants to expand their knowledge about our food systems, farm cooperatives, and ways to support a more just food system.”
“I feel a lot of gratitude to be a part of this special, focused group. I am truly amazed that the consistency in the vision and the mission has been in an always-forward direction. I know there have been ups and downs, but overcoming any obstacles has been a part of the blessing for many.”
Onward and Adelante
Every year, the Summit offers a valuable opportunity to step back and spark fresh ideas and collaborations.
But our efforts don’t stop there; they continue year-round. This network of solution-minded individuals is always working to drive meaningful change. If you have not yet become a Citizen-Consumer or attended a Summit, you are truly missing out!
Consider joining us as a Citizen-Consumer and stay tuned for future event invitations and other ways to get involved.
