Cry Freedom (Part 1)
NEXT MONTH a new film, 'Amazing Grace', is being released to mark the
200th anniversary of the abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807. It tells the
story of William Wilberforce who mobilised many others to speak out with him
against the injustice of a trade which involved the buying and selling of human
beings. This was an 'industry' which formed the backbone of
Britain's economy at that time, but nonetheless one man stood up, against
much opposition, because his convictions compelled him to act.
But as we celebrate the end of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, and the endeavours of both black and white abolitionists in the 18th and 19th centuries, we cannot ignore the fact that people are still being bought and sold now, in the 21st century. Lode Chapel, part of a growing coalition of organisations from around the world, seek to use this anniversary as a catalyst to once again cry for freedom.
In 2007 men, women and children are trafficked within their own countries and across international borders for the purpose of exploiting them through: prostitution and other forms of sexual exploitation; forced labour or services; slavery or practices similar to slavery; servitude; or the removal of organs.
At least 12.3 million people are victims of forced labour worldwide.
An estimated 1.2 million children are trafficked each year.
The majority of trafficked victims are poor.
Human trafficking is the third largest source of income for organised crime.
Will we ignore the cry of those who cannot fight for themselves - or will we be part of the worldwide shout for change? The abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807 was achieved by a mass movement made up of ordinary members of the public, black and white, male and female, all joining their voices to those of the enslaved. Whoever you are and whatever your age, you too can make a difference!
Lode Chapel is organising some special events to help 'Stop the Traffik' including an exhibition of art, photography and creative writing on the theme of 'Freedom' and an evening event which could also include dramatic and video contributions to help raise awareness of the issues. Dates and venues will be published in next month's magazine, but if you would like to get involved in the planning for these local activities or make a contribution to the exhibition please contact me - my details are below.
For more information about the national campaign have a look at www.stopthetraffik.org or www.setallfree.net.