Feminist Mother's Day Gift Guide

Yup, it's time for Mother's Day! And yes, you have that awesome lady in your life who is your mom, mom to your kids or just acts like your mom. Most moms I know just want a relaxing day, a hug, a kiss and maybe a trip to the spa. Don't buy into the ads that say you must buy her something sparkly and fancy*. But if you do want to get her something, why not something that will do more than just burn a hole in your wallet?


You can send all the fab mamas in your life an  e-card thanks to Strong Families

Peace

Since the origin of Mother's Day is as a day of peace, here are some great organizations working for peace. Donate to them and insert the Mother's Day Proclamation in the card to the mom in your life:

Support Mothers


What better way to say, "Thanks" than to support other moms? Heartland Alliance has "gifts" so you can support through child care or a new mom pack.



You can't go wrong with a gift from Heifer International. Bees...goats...rabbits...hens...pigs...sheep!

Give a gift to the mom in your life that will help another mom out.

Buy the mom in your life a book for her relaxing Sunday and you can support this mama's blog through Powells.

Gifts

Until May 12, 2013, Demeter Press is offering 40 percent off all Demeter Press titles (with the exception of Maternal Theory: Essential Readings [O'Reilly, ed.]),
plus five percent tax and free shipping. PDF Catalog.

To take advantage of this offer, please send order to:
aoreilly@yorku.ca by May 12, 2013



Sure you can head down to the local big box and grab a soothing candle...But won't the mom in your life relax even better knowing that the candle was purchased thru this social enterprise? Prosperity Candle trains women across the world how to make candles and how to be business owners. They work with women in their home country, but also with refugees who now live in the USA. I have never used one of these candles, but I know someone is going to go out and spend money on a fancy candle for Mother's Day, so why not buy one that makes a difference in the world?

International Rescue Committee has their Rescue Gifts store. IRC "responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 22 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home."

Also check out my 2011 Gift Guide for other ideas. 



* Don't get me wrong, I love sparkly and fancy. But the pressure most people get at Mother's Day is to hit the mall and bring something home in a cute box with a bow on it. Most moms I know just want a relaxing day to themselves and a yummy brunch with the family.