End It Movement: Shining The Light On Slavery

 

 

When one hears the word, “slavery” it’s easily dismissed as something dark and sad that happened in the past.  What so many people don’t realize is that slavery still exists.  Currently, every day there are 27 million people forced to work against their wills.  And we’re not talking about brothels or the sex trade alone but also factories, farms, streets, and quarries.  Men, women, and children.  Stolen lives of people living in poor conditions, trapped within an ongoing hell.

Sound absurd?

What does the word “slavery” mean?

Slavery occurs when someone uses force and threats to dominate and control another person, exploiting him or her to work against their will with little or no payment at all.

The facts on slavery:

27 million people are forced to work as slaves across the world.

800 000 people are trafficked across international borders every year.

Slavery exists in 161 countries.

An estimated 1.2 million children are trafficked each year.

Slavery generates an estimated income of $32 billion per year.

Types of slavery

According to The Anti-Slavery Organization, there are various types of slavery:

• Bonded Labor

Also known as debt bondage.  This is the most common method of enslaving people.  A person becomes a bonded laborer when their labor is demanded as a means of repayment for a loan.

• Forced Labor

In most instances of slavery, there is an element of forced labor.  This exists in any work where someone is forced to work against his or her will.  They usually work under constant threat and punishment if they don’t comply.

• Human Trafficking

Trafficking involves transporting people away from the communities in which they live and forcing them to work against their will using violence, deception, or coercion.

 SO WHAT IS BEING DONE ABOUT SLAVERY?

In a recent interview with the talented Nathaniel Buzolic, known for his role as Kol from ‘The Vampire Diaries’, we asked him if he’s currently working on any worthwhile causes at the moment.  His response?

“Absolutely, extremely passionate about putting an end to modern day slavery. Today there are more slaves in history then ever before, and sadly, women and children account for the bulk of the 27 million people who are enslaved. I would urge everyone who considers themselves free to visit End It Movement and show your support by donating or signing the petition. The world needs to stand up to the people who subject others to this injustice.”

End It Movement was recently established with the aim of raising awareness on modern-day slavery and shining some light on the darkness that exists for so many slaves.  The cause consists of seven partner organizations working to prevent, rescue, and restore those trapped in slavery.

 What can you do?

Everyone has a voice.  Use yours.  The more people talking about this the better.  The more people willing to stand together to fight for this cause, the better.  Log onto End It Movement and see how you can help.  If you can’t offer assistance or a donation, at least help to spread the word.

“Nothing happens because we are aware of modern-day slavery, but nothing will EVER happen until we are.” End It Movement

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11d5Z_hPlto]