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Union Made Kippot grew out of the work of the Progressive Jewish Alliance with on-line sweatshop-free retailer Justice Clothing (founded by Jewish labor activists) and unionized hat manufacturer New Jersey Headwear/Unionwear (Jewish owned), all with the common goal of getting people to re-think their consumer behavior and to support manufacturing practice that value, respect, and compensate their employees justly.
"You shall not abuse a needy and destitute laborer, whether a fellow countrymen or a stranger..."(D'varim 24:14).
PJA's "Kosher Kippot" campaign to this end provided a perfect place for Justice Clothing and Unionwear to launch a line of kippot manufacturered in the United States under a union contract. Unionwear, with workers represented by UNITE!HERE, and Justice Clothing, put together a couple of styles, a bunch of fabrics, and endless customization options for customers who think tzedek, mishpat and tikkun olam are not just concepts to be discussed in synagogue, but real and valuable lessons for us to learn and to teach by our actions.
Our hope is that congregations and individuals planning simchot like a bar- or bat-mitzvah or wedding, or simply looking to replace their old kippah supply will consider going to the next level and supporting folks whose bottom line is justice.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
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