Global Slavery in the 21st Century
There are more slaves in the world today than at any time in history, says investigative reporter Ben Skinner, who infiltrated trafficking networks and slave markets on five continents (including ours) for his book, "A Crime So Monstrous: Face-to-Face with Modern-day Slavery."
WHAT TO DO?
From Ben Skinner, following his talk at the Cape Ann Forum
1. Understand the problem
Slaves are forced to work, under threat of violence, for no pay beyond subsistence. A Crime So Monstrous tells dramatic stories of the lives of a few slaves, as well as of the author’s often harrowing encounters with those who sell, own, and free them. But there are millions across the globe who are held in shadows. For more on his book:
http://www.acrimesomonstrous.com/
2. Spread the word
Rally community organizations and press elected officials to commit to abolition. Use the might of government and business to fight this crime. The slavery of millions is our burden; if we do nothing, all of us are less free. Two good websites for more information are Free The Slaves and Anti-Slavery International:
http://www.freetheslaves.net/Page.aspx?pid=183
http://www.antislavery.org/english
Here are two U.S.-focused groups for more background information and ideas for action: the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (CAST-LA) and the Polaris Project:
http://www.castla.org
http://www.polarisproject.org
3. Give to “Free The Slaves”
On five continents, Ben Skinner saw the work of Free The Slaves and its British sister, Anti-Slavery International, the world’s oldest human rights organization. The groups use locally-based strategies through global partners to rehabilitate slaves and eradicate bondage. Please stand with them by clicking below.
https://www.freetheslaves.net/SSLPage.aspx?pid=184&srcid=183
4. Action You Can Take in Massachusetts
Senate Bill 58, “An Act Relating to Anti-Human Trafficking and Protection,” is currently in Senate Ways and Means. Senator Mark Montigny is the lead sponsor and Senator Tarr, along with other members of the Senate and House, is a co-sponsor. Notify them of your support for this bill.
http://www.mass.gov/legis/186history/s00058.htm
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An earlier version of Ben’s presentation on slavery is available on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65anOx-4Wfo