Ways to recognize those without freedom on independence day
For most Americans, the Fourth of July is just a fun day to celebrate all the different freedoms we are lucky to enjoy in this country. From the right to vote, to what we can say, do, wear, and believe. However, with the estimated amount of around 400,000 people currently trafficked in the U.S, and hundreds of thousands more across the world, the Fourth of July is also a day to reflect on the people in our country and across the world who still do not have the freedoms for which our Founding Fathers fought.
While independence day is a wonderful time to give thanks for the privileges we have in this country, it’s also the perfect opportunity to continue the fight for freedom and advocate for those who are still without it. There is truly nothing more patriotic than fighting for the rights of others and you can definitely advocate while enjoying your favorite holiday activities!
Create awareness on human trafficking by walking in your local parade
Education and awareness are the first steps in the fight against human trafficking. Start the conversation in your local community by walking in your local parade and promoting anti-human trafficking efforts. Make yourself a resource for your community, and tell them how they can get involved with the mission. A perfect way to do this is by making pamphlets to provide information about anti-human trafficking campaigns like the Dressember Foundation and pass them out as you walk through the town! Make sure to include basic facts and stats about human trafficking as modern-day slavery - for some inspiration make sure you check out our Dressember Daily Reading for infographics and fast facts on the issue.
Create a community-wide fundraiser
The Fourth of July is the perfect time for communities to get together and work for something greater than themselves. It’s super popular for communities to do 5K runs, bake sales and concerts for charity in the midst of all the Independence Day fun, so why not plan your own? Reach out to your local government to determine the logistics of the event, such as any cost of putting it on, location, and time. Use social media like Facebook events or Eventbrite to spread the word, or even some fun old-school posters to put around town. Make sure it’s easy for your participants to donate to the cause for whatever event you decide to put on! Some suggestions would be to have an available link or QR code to your fundraising page or even set up a Venmo specifically for the fundraiser. For more ideas on what fundraisers you can put on, check out our fundraising toolkit!
Turn your backyard BBQ into a fundraiser
If you don’t have the time to plan a full-fledged community event, no worries, there are plenty of ways you can still help the cause within your direct circle. Everyone loves an old fashion Fourth of July BBQ, so how about adding an advocacy aspect into yours? Along with your red, white, and blue decor, add a presentation to educate your guests on human trafficking and how they can join the fight against it. Show a video that educates on the subject or have a toast on why the issue matters to you. Remember to allow people to donate whatever amount they want and that every type of contribution goes a long way. Need a resource to help you plan it out? Go to our House Party Planning Kit!
Use your own platform to create awareness
On July 5th, Instagram and Facebook feel like they’re flooded with pictures of red, white, and blue fireworks and flags from the day before. Switch it up by using this time and platform to speak out about the human trafficking that is still very real and prevalent in this country and across the world. Share why you are personally passionate about the issue with your closest followers. When friends and family understand and care for your personal passions, it will help them connect to the issue on a more personal level and hopefully propel them to become an advocate themselves.
One of the many rights this country grants us is the freedom of speech and honoring that right on Independence Day is one of the many ways we can help those who unfortunately don’t share the same freedoms that we do. It is important to recognize the opportunities this country has given us on days like the Fourth of July, but also just as important to recognize the leaps and bounds we still have to go till we can truly celebrate freedom for all.
About the Author
Molly Molloy is from a small suburb called Glen Ellyn right outside Chicago IL. She loves fashion, specifically ethical and sustainable fashion, tea, and exploring new cities. She makes it her mission to find a favorite cafe in every new place! Molly is currently exploring the nation's capital in Washington D.C. while she studies Public Relations at American University.