I’ve Become an Abolitionist (Ruth’s SOLS 18/31)

Six months ago I learned the truth about slavery.

There are 27 million people living in slavery worldwide.

A slave is someone who is forced to work for little or no money and is not free to leave. In our modern society, there are 27 million slaves. Many of these are children. As I’ve learned of the horrors which happen in our world today, I’ve been moved to take action.

I’ve decided to raise awareness of these issues by educating myself and others. By signing up for email updates through International Justice Mission, as well as regularly checking their website and Not For Sale, I’ve been able to know the most-up-to-date information regarding slavery. Since reading is a part of my life, it was only natural for me to pick up  Not for Sale and From Congress to Brothel: A Journey of Hope, Healing, and Restoration in order to understand the issue more.  I’ve joined a local Justice Team and am excited to become part of the solution to this global problem.

I also choose to use my buying power to influence companies to become more proactive in avoiding materials harvested or produced by slaves. I’ve written letters to my favorite companies, Sketchers and Carter’s Clothing, who have failed to take a stand against slavery. Chain Store Reaction as an easy way to contact companies and raise awareness about slavery. I look for fair trade chocolate and coffee, since most of the world’s coffee beans are harvested by slaves.

By purchasing products made by survivors who are using their creativity to make jewelry or bags, or by purchasing products where the profits go toward rescuing slaves, I am helping to abolish slavery. Recently I bought a free set bag with the word abolitionist written all over the bag.

Today I carried this bag and was reminded of the passion I have to fight injustice in our world.