The treatment of women reflects a society’s commitment to equality and social justice. But it also reflects its ability to harness human capital, advance to innovative frontiers and generate higher levels of economic prosperity for all members.
1.18.2012
The Geography of Women's Economic Opportunity
1.04.2012
Changes are coming!
The image above is just one hint at the awesomeness ahead. We have also joined Twitter! Come follow us to learn about what's happening with Zimbags.
It's 2012 -- Zimbags 5th year in operation, celebrate along with us this year as we grow and change.
3.04.2011
Human rights are rights for humans.
The people of Zimbabwe face many attacks on their rights. Here is a human rights violations that is currently taking place in Zimbabwe:
Human rights and political activists in Zimbabwe are facing a major clampdown, with over 60 currently held in detention and many allegedly tortured. In Harare, 45 people have been charged with treason and face the death penalty if convicted. More activists have been arrested in Bulawayo and Manicaland province.
Read more here.
As elections loom large, let's make it clear to the leaders in Zimbabwe that the world is watching and let's show the people of Zimbabwe that we care what happens to them. At Zimbags, we are watching in hopes of keeping the people in power accountable for their actions. Join us by staying informed.
Happy Friday!
-The Happy Bag Elves
2.25.2011
We Heart Jumo!
Do you have a Facebook? I'm going to venture a guess that you do. Well, now you can follow an issue or project (like Zimbags!)2. Sign in with your existing Facebook account or create one.
3. Search for the issues and projects that interest you (like Zimbags!)
So while you are clicking around on Facebook today, how about joining Jumo and following Zimbags.Happy Friday!
2.21.2011
"My Rights. My Struggle." Amnesty International Exhibition
The "My Rights. My Struggle." exhibition is a testament to the extraordinary bravery and determination of ordinary Zimbabweans defending their rights. Originating in South Africa in 2008 and visiting several African countries, the exhibition compellingly illustrates the continuing need for action in Zimbabwe.Amnesty International first brought this photo exhibition to the United States in early 2009 and is now available on line. Listen as human rights defenders describe in audio interviews the challenges they confront. Hear what keeps them motivated in the face of such adversity. Allow their voices to inspire you to speak out as well for an end to human rights abuses in Zimbabwe.
1.13.2011
The true size of Africa....

1.05.2011
There is no template, but there is solidarity.

After being in power for 30 years, President Robert Mugabe shows no sign of loosening his grip on Zimbabwe. The last election was violent, many were tortured, imprisoned, and killed. And the outlook for a future election is not good.
This article in the NYT lays out some of the warning signs this time around.
In Mashonaland West, Mr. Mugabe’s home province, people said they were already being warned by local traditional leaders loyal to Mr. Mugabe that the next election would be more terrifying than the last one, when their relatives were abducted and attacked after Mr. Tsvangirai won some constituencies.
“They say, ‘We were only playing with you last time,’ ” said one 53-year-old woman, too frightened to be quoted by name, repeating a warning others in the countryside have heard. “ ‘This time we will go door to door beating and killing people if you don’t vote for ZANU-PF.’ ”
Mugabe has been in power far too long and it is worsening the situation in Zimbabwe. On top of worrying about feeding their children, sending them to school, finding jobs, and every-day things... the people of Zimbabwe also fear threats of violence.
“There’s no template about the solution to the Zimbabwe crisis,” he said. “We have learned this over the last 10 years. There is no template for how we’re going to deal with Mugabe.”
There may not be a template for how to deal with Mugabe and the crisis in Zimbabwe, but there are things we can do. Even from thousands of miles away. Even physically removed from the situation, we can stand in solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe. We can spread the word about what is happening. I hope that the news continues to cover the situation in Zimbabwe so that Mugabe knows the world is watching. You can spread the word by telling your friends and family, writing about it on your blog, sharing links and information on Facebook....
Solidarity: arising from common responsibilities and as between members of a group or between classes, peoples, etc.
Let's make sure that the people of Zimbabwe know that they are not alone in their fight for justice and fair treatment. Stay informed about what is going on and spread the word. Voices are powerful. The more voices, the louder the call for what is right.
-The Bag Elves
10.20.2010
What's Up: Zimbabwe
Thanks to The Economist, Zimbabwe has been making it into the news recently.
These two articles have proposed some ways to deal with the political situation and explain the current climate of the once thriving country:
Call Robert Mugabe's Bluff
Can Robert Mugabe Ever Be Persuaded to Give Up?
I truly believe that there is a solution to the problems facing Zimbabwe at the moment. And I think that it starts with the people. Of course, the government and police and economy need to be fixed. But while they are running in circles and dodging responsibility, we can help the people of Zimbabwe by supporting organizations doing work on the ground in Zimbabwe, buy products from artisans and craftsman in Zimbabwe, support students in Zimbabwe so that the next generation is educated and ready to lead their nation, and come up with new, creative, and sustainable solutions to the extreme poverty facing most Zimbabweans.
We can be a real part of the solution. Here are some great organizations that are doing work in Zimbabwe and how you can get involved:
Tariro
Sponsor a girl student, make a donation towards school book and medical care, or simply sign up for their newsletter to stay informed and spread the word.
Zimbabwe Artists Project (ZAP)
Purchase artwork by artists in Weya, Zimbabwe, volunteer, have a house party, or spread the word about their work.
EcoAfrica
Check out their cool handmade paper and products!
Ten Thousand Villages
This great fair trade store offers products from all over the world. Check out these beautiful dolls made in Zimbabwe.
There are solutions! Sometimes it is as simple as making more intentional purchases when shopping.
Have a great day,
The Happy Bag Elves


