Rapaport Creates a Fair Trade Diamond and Jewelry Association

Martin Rapaport, with his bold moves in support of social justice, donates $100,000 to create this association, stating, “We must help. Not because we are guilty of anything…. We must wake up to the fact that the poorest people of Africa, the artisanal diggers, are a part of our diamond family”

Yet can we deny the connection between the death of 3.7 million Africans and the diamond industry—whether we feel guilty or not?

It would be a powerful move indeed if the people who were connected to purchasing diamonds, from the paramilitary groups to the customer at the retail store, were in the same room as the surviving victims. Indeed, the executives who perpetuated these atrocities could be doing business right now, having joined trade groups that advocate responsible practices.

I would advocate, as I have throughout this blog, full transparency, which in this case would mean Truth and Reconciliation.

Let’s take the family metaphor further. If we are all part of the “diamond family”, we know, from our own families, that denial of wrongs is a powerful negative force. Which family are we going be? Nelson Mandela’s or Medea’s?

Following the footsteps of Nelson Mandela would create an unparalleled precedent and true healing, but who has moral courage to do take this right step?

Only time will tell. In the meantime, outstanding individuals, such as Martin Rapaport, are taking steps to address the issues. Read below.

http://www.best-fine-jewelry.com/article.cfm/id/89207

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