Made in the USA -public policy for micro-enterprise
Grand Canyon National Park visitors revealed their apprehension and distrust about attempting to purchase anything other than imported souvenirs. They came to the area hoping to meet local artisans, and learn about local handmade pottery, jewelry and native arts. Instead they felt almost forced to buy imports they didn’t want. Better merchandising and labeling, and improved sales training, are needed.
The goal is jobs creation. Who will benefit? All of us! We visited Bright Angel gift store run by the concessioner Xanterra. We saw room for improvement: For example, products designed in America, but manufactured China, should not be labeled Made in the USA. We urged them to carry more work actually made by American and Native American artisans. See photo…
The National Park Service sent monitors out to observe our demonstration, which was their very first “First Amendment” event receiving a permit for that location. They found us to be well-behaved and earnest! We told Xanterra concession staff that our goal for them is greater sales, which they’ll achieve if they carry more authentic American-made and Native American-made products. See pictures here…