CNN’s Freedom Project reminds us that while the internet can be wonderful for awareness it is also a tool for trafficking people in slavery. It’s shocking to hear that in 2010 slave traders made more than Google, Nike , and Starbucks combined! It’s important to be aware of the ways our participation can affect the issue. Let’s make technology a tool for positive change!
Put on your walking shoes, it’s time for a Freedom Walk. Free-them is putting on their second annual Freedom Walk on September 18th 2011. Some of this year’s guests include politicians, survivors, celebrities, and Canada’s leading abolitionists. It’s a family friendly event with activities for children before the 5km walk begins. What a great way to join the movement! Click here for more information and to register. The Freedom Walk info
Hey New Yorkers! You have a special opportunity to support Congress in removing slavery from products that we all use every day!
New York City’s very own Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D), together with Reps. Chris Smith (R) of New Jersey and Jackie Speier (D) of California are introducing a bill—H.R. 2759—that will help us all take a step closer to ending slavery. Rep. Maloney will be at New York’s City Hall tomorrow, Wednesday, to make this announcement. Her bill requires major businesses in the United States to tell you, their customers and investors, what they’re doing to end slavery. Rather than creating cumbersome requirements in the current economic downturn, the bill would allow the market—that is, you—to decide whether to reward a business with YOUR business, when it takes steps to address slavery.
Read: ‘Rep. Maloney to Introduce Federal Law Against Supply Chain Slavery
Show your support for this bill and send a message to companies that you want them to do the right thing. Thank you, Reps. Maloney, Smith and Speier for introducing this important bill!
WHO:
Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, anti-trafficking advocates including FTS’ colleagues in the Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking (ATEST), others TBA.
WHAT:
Introduction of the Business Transparency on Trafficking & Slavery Act
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at 12:00pm
WHERE:
New York City Hall Steps. Click here for directions.
We spent two days on the Willie Nelson Country Music Throwdown tour with our friend Lukas Nelson. Lukas pulled out all the stops to make sure everyone at the show was aware there are 27 million people in slavery today. The fans lined up after his set to get autographs and pictures. Lukas posed with our “Slavery Sucks Freedom Rocks” sign and helped us pass out information cards. He said ” I just want to help in whatever way I can.” Well Lukas, you continue to help in a big way.
If you want to pose with our “Slavery Sucks Freedom Rocks” poster, download it here, and post the photo on our Facebook!
Check out some footage from the show!
You may already know that slavery is connected to you. It’s in the products you buy, the clothes you wear and the car you drive. There are thousands of slaves in America, some hidden from view, others standing on street corners you pass every day.
Ever wonder: What can I do to stop it?
Here’s one simple but vital thing you can do: Call or e-mail your U.S. senators, and urge them to support the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (S.1301).
This critical legislation is pending in the Senate right now. Your voice could make the difference in ensuring the U.S. continues to fight trafficking and slavery.
The Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act ensures the U.S. will remain a world leader in combating slavery.
It directs authorities to raid brothels and sweatshops, freeing slaves and prosecuting slaveholders. It enables rescue shelters and rehabilitation programs to operate, inside the U.S. and overseas. The Act helps Free the Slaves conduct programs that you support in India and Haiti.
This landmark anti-slavery initiative was created by Congress years ago, but the Act expires soon and must be renewed. Any delay could jeopardize the remarkable progress the U.S. has made.
It’s easy to find your senators’ contact info at the top right corner of the Senate’s website. Here’s what you can say to their receptionists, aides or voicemails:
“My name is ___ and I live in (your state). I’m calling to ask the senator to co-sponsor S.1301, the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act. I also would like the senator to support strengthening the Act, by requiring major companies to disclose on their websites and in annual reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission what they’re doing to end trafficking and slavery.”
The battle against slavery has always been a bipartisan effort that brings lawmakers together, even in polarized times. Senators are working on the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act behind the scenes, even though other issues are center stage at the moment. Your senators need to hear from you now. Please contact them today.
Thanks for your continued support.
