obviously I think merch artists always need to source their manufacturers in a way that prioritizes local businesses, environmental sustainability and fair labor, that goes without saying. but i think its unfair that people hold poor 20-something self employed artists making anime keychains to afford rent to a higher standard than mega corporations. people will be like "I cant go into artist alleys at cons without being appalled by the plastic and thinking of the supply chain" then go into target and be like "ooh another cool cup for me to put on my shelf and never use"
and ya if you follow an artist who is using a confirmed unethical manufacturer 1. tell them, preferably with sources and proof and 2. if they dont switch after they know, just unfollow and dont support their art anymore. but I dont like this sentiment that artists, even the ones that who do put the work in to find sustainable manufacturers or make all their stuff themselves are on par with fucking Walmart or something
