Courtesy of Ole Miss UM
Rajiv Narayan wrote in a March 2014 post to Upworthy, an online magazine promoting social consciousness, that an average of 25 slaves works in the production of everyday technology products, food, drink, and textiles necessary to sustain his lifestyle.
Promoting an online quiz at slaveryfootprint.org, Narayan encourages readers to consider the number of uncompensated workers fueling their individual preferences toward creature comforts.
In an effort to connect messages such as this in an accessible form, members of The University of Mississippi’s chapter of the International Justice Mission are holding Justice Week on campus this week to celebrate progress and continue momentum toward combating modern slavery.
Gabrielle Barrientos, chapter president and senior public policy leadership major, said the information presented throughout the week will enrich understanding and inspire advocacy.
“Most people think that human trafficking only happens in distant third-world countries, but we have cases of it happening here in Mississippi,” Barrientos said. “I hope that our events will help students to realize that we are not immune to human trafficking and that they can make a difference.”
Tonight, at 7:30 p.m. the International Justice Mission will sponsor worship in the Grove to begin the week.
“I love the experience of all Christian denominations coming together to fight for one cause,” said Lindsey Hardin, sophomore French and psychology double major and justice mission member. “I believe it is important for Christians to break down the wall of denomination and worship God while raising awareness of modern-day slavery.”
Tuesday, a 5k Run to Rescue will begin at 6 p.m. in the Grove as part of a 24-hour Stand for Freedom running through 5 p.m. Wednesday.
Students interested in advocacy are encouraged to attend Wednesday’s panel about human trafficking at 7 p.m. in the law school auditorium.
Solutions for survivors will be celebrated Thursday at both a 4 p.m. Arts Aftercare therapy model session in Anderson Room 21 and at a free concert featuring The Red Thangs and JUBILEE at 9:30 p.m. at Frank and Marlee’s.
Barrientos said that making a difference is often easier than first considered.
“One of the nonprofits we are hosting has the motto ‘Do what you love to undo what you hate,’ and we want to give students plenty of opportunities to do what they love to fight human trafficking,” Barrientos said. “This is why we have a variety of events ranging from a prayer service in the Grove to a free concert on the Square. We don’t want students to be overwhelmed by the statistics, but to do what they can to make a difference. Something as simple as purchasing a fair-trade chocolate bar or a fair-trade cup of coffee from High Pointe can help fight oppression.”
Members of the International Justice Mission hope to present opportunities, Barrientos said.
“We hope that our events will literally change people’s lives for the better,” she said. “We are working with Run to Rescue to raise enough money to fund two human trafficking rescue missions. Additionally, we are raising money to help survivors of trafficking heal through art therapy. Our goal is to spread awareness and make freedom real.”
