Public Awareness and the Rule of Law: The Key to Addressing the Human Trafficking Crisis

by Bill Livermore

Dear friends,

Ending human trafficking, be it in a village, city, or the entire world, is and always has been the work of many.  From the Somaly Mam Foundation, to engaged governments, active law enforcement, and our NGO partners, it takes a coordinated effort to rescue survivors and help them transition to safe, healthy, and productive lives.

There is, however, another key participant that is every bit as important to the cause, you.  Our supporters, the general public – each and every one of us has the tools and a role to play in the fight to eradicate modern day slavery.

This principle guides the Somaly Mam Foundation and is why we have partnered with the Office of the Mayor of New York City on the landmark public education campaign, “Let’s End Human Trafficking,” which urges New Yorkers to “Know it.  See it.  Report it!”  The citywide campaign includes bus stop and subway ads that bring public attention to the reality of human trafficking in New York and provides the public and victims with immediate ways for them to get involved or find help.

Imagine how many people could be liberated from slavery if each and every one of us knew the signs to look for so that a potential victim can recognize a trafficker’s trap and people can identify and report suspected trafficking.  So often, it is the concern of a neighbor or chance acquaintance that begins the movement towards freedom for a victim of domestic or s*xual slavery.  In fact, you can read some of those stories on the Let’s End Human Trafficking website.  We can all help ensure that the Rule of Law is upheld.

We also recently launched the Somaly Mam Foundation’s Empowerment Line of survivor-made products.  These hand-woven scarves are created by survivors in Cambodia, where young women who have experienced the worst in human cruelty are taught marketable skills like hairdressing and weaving.

This month we take a closer look at the FIFA World Cup and what that means for our cause – the increase in trafficking of young women and girls to South Africa for the event, but also the ceaseless efforts of individuals and organizations who are committed, as we are, to combating and ending modern day slavery.  We share the inspiring story of Connecticut students and teachers who formed a group to raise awareness and funds for the human trafficking crisis – and then found themselves with a celebrity spokesperson!

If we are to realize our dream, it will take each and every one of us working together.  You, our supporters, are helping us move closer to a free, just, and empowered world through your efforts to raise awareness, lobby your governments, and to support our work through your donations and purchases of our Empowerment products.

Thank you for your unwavering support,

Bill Livermore
Executive Director, Somaly Mam Foundation