Slavery still exists. Now, it’s time to shine a light on this dark crime.
Slavery is happening all over the world. But the truth is, some still aren’t aware of what’s happening. This Thursday, February 13, the END IT Movement is hoping to change that.
In 2012, world leaders gathered in Atlanta to uncover the issue of human trafficking and slavery. What they found – soon created a movement that is still thriving. This week, we have the opportunity to raise awareness for the trapped, abused, and despaired.
On Thursday, with a simple red X, the END IT movement is raising awareness concerning the existence of slavery on all fronts. According to END IT’s coalition partner Free the Slaves, 40 million people are still trapped in slavery. They estimate the top four types of slavery are: labor slavery, sex slavery, forced marriage, and child slavery. Likewise, their coalition partner International Justice Mission estimates that slavery garners $150 billion annually.
But thanks to the END IT movement, we can join the fight. All it takes is a red sharpie or pen, and the willingness to talk about the issue, and a selfie posted on social media.
While it may sound and look crazy, the little red mark is a phenomenal conversation starter.
I was first introduced to the movement when I was a freshman in college. Some older friends had attended the Passion Conference in Atlanta and came home with a red mark on their hands. I began asking questions that led me to discover how they were wearing the mark to symbolize the hold slavery still has on the world. That little red mark is part of the reason I am so passionate about seeing justice for all who are battling against the chains of slavery.
In the past few years, the movement has garnered support and participation from celebrities such as Carrie Underwood, Peyton Manning, Ashton Kutcher, Louie Giglio, Colton Dixon, and countless others. In 2013, the popular Passion conference raised over $3 million to help the movement bring men, women, and children out of bondage.
My favorite thing about this ministry is its flexibility and simplicity. On the 13th, all you have to do is place a red X on your hand and post a picture online with the hashtag #enditmovement. Then, when others see or ask the reason behind it, the opportunity is there to share how slavery still exists.
Without fail, this little sharpie mark on a hand raises questions, and that is exactly what END IT is trying to do.
Used as an awareness tool, the red X is a reminder of 4 key facts.
- 40 million people are trapped in slavery.
- Slavery generates $150 billion in revenue annually.
- 71% of those enslaved are women and children.
- 1 in 4 victims worldwide are children.
CEO of International Justice Mission, Gary Haugen said: “Nothing happens just because we are aware of modern-day slavery, but nothing will ever happen until we are.”
Since 2012, this organization has been fighting this issue, because as they say, “even one is too many.” Will you join us?
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy (Proverbs 31:8-9).
