Trafficking and modern-day slavery might be more a part of our everyday lives than we realize. Modern-day slavery refers to institutional slavery that exists in present day society. Estimates of the number of slaves today range from around 21 million to 70 million, depending on the method used to estimate and the definition of slavery being used. But what can one person do to combat trafficking and slavery? A lot.
Assess your Slavery Footprint. The complex supply chains of mass-produced goods can make it difficult to guarantee that a product has not been produced using slavery. Forced labor is present in many industries, and most American homes have products from those industries. Clothing, electronics and seasonal produce are just the beginning. Take the test to get an estimate of your slavery footprint.
Be smart with your smart phone. TraffickCam helps you combat sex trafficking by uploading photos of the hotel rooms you stay in. Traffickers regularly post photographs of their victims posed in hotel rooms for online advertisements. The purpose of TraffickCam is to create a database of hotel room images that an investigator can search, in order to find other images that were taken in the same location, and use those photos as part of an investigation. Get the app today!
Get involved. Gain a better understanding of the realities of trafficking and slavery by volunteering with local organizations that fight trafficking and support survivors. Search for nonprofits in your town or come and visit us in Nashville!
Be intentional about where you spend your money. Purchasing coffee, baked goods, personal and household items from national chains is reliable and easy, but the same amount of money can often be spent at organizations that support survivors. Actively fight trafficking several days a week by simply bypassing the crowded coffee drive-through and making a stop at a local survivor-led cafe during your morning routine. For approximately the same price you’ll receive lovingly prepared food and drinks while insuring a living wage and safe workplace where survivors can thrive. Naturally, we suggest The Cafe at Thistle Farms for Nashville locals and visitors!
#HumanTraffickingAwarenessMonth #LoveHeals