Let's recap what we've learned so far
Dressember Reading Day #29
Every day during the month of December, we’re answering common questions and breaking down different aspects of human trafficking on our blog and Instagram. Join us in raising awareness about the injustice of human trafficking by sharing, donating, or joining the Dressember campaign.
It’s hard to believe that there are only three days left of Dressember! Together, we have become more informed on the topic of human trafficking, raised incredible amounts of money to fight it, and have helped countless friends, family members, and neighbors become advocates themselves in identifying and preventing human trafficking.
Human trafficking has been identified as the fastest growing crime in the world today, according to the Department of Defense. Learning about human trafficking can feel like drinking through a fire hose, so let’s take a moment to recap what have we learned about human trafficking in the last 29 days
What human trafficking is:
It is modern-day slavery. Individuals who are trafficked have been forced, coerced, or manipulated into performing work against their will.
It comes in many forms, including sex trafficking, forced labor, debt bondage, or domestic servitude.
It has been reported in every nation around the world and in all fifty states within the US.
What human trafficking isn’t:
It is not limited to certain demographics, such as only women or only individuals from developing nations.
It is not always obvious or visible. Educating yourself on the signs of human trafficking is one of the best ways to identify and prevent trafficking in your community.
Despite being an enormous industry, it is not impossible to fight. Through diligent advocacy, human trafficking can be eradicated.
Why is it important to fight human trafficking?
Because the vast majority of victims are never rescued. All people deserve freedom, health, dignity, and justice. Each of us is responsible for doing what we can to help bring these individuals from a place of victimization to a place of flourishing.
Because one in four people who are trafficked are children. These children are our next generation of leaders, educators, and changemakers. They are entitled to joyful, carefree childhoods and the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
Because it impacts all of us. Human trafficking is an abuse of human rights and dignity that can be found in virtually all communities.
The topic of human trafficking can feel daunting, too big, and even overwhelming. However, it is important to remember that change is not created by a few people doing enormous things (though if you can do enormous things, please do!). Rather, change is created by every person joining the fight and committing to do little things as they are able. This can be done by raising money, educating others, or simply putting on a dress or a tie in the morning.
So let’s link arms for the final three days of Dressember and commit to eradicating human trafficking from our communities. It takes all of us.
Further Resources:
Top 8 Apps for the Anti-Trafficking Activist
TED Talks that Voice the Problem of Modern Slavery
5 Things You Might Not Know about Human Trafficking
How Do Countries Contribute to Human Trafficking?
And if you’re traveling this holiday season, be sure to give this article a read.
Holland Freeman is a Pacific Northwest native and pine tree enthusiast studying Religion and Conflict Management at Pepperdine University. She is keen on exploring this lovely earth by lacing up her running shoes, backpacking through the forest, and journaling on a European train heading who-knows-where. She plans to continue in her passion for advocacy and human rights through graduate studies in the field of Theology and Peace Studies.