Foreign Policy Blogs

The Freedom of Education

The Freedom of Education“Only the educated are free.”  -Epictetus (a Greek Stoic philosopher, most likely born a slave).

An empty classroom is surely a sad sight, and the sight of a child denied an education not only brings tears to one's eyes, but enslaves nations. Children are denied an education due to poverty, war, disability…and those who do receive an education are often pulled from school early or do not receive that of an adequate education. And when one talks about education in development, one is speaking of primary education. Those who are receiving a higher or university education are far and few in-between in many regions.

The Freedom of EducationWhen one thinks of the word education it is often taken for granted, but it is the fundamental right of every man, woman and child. Education is not only a right it is the key to freedom; the key to freedom from poverty, slavery, disease, child labor, conflict and all of the world's woes. Education heals wounds and creates leaders, education is power.

 

Author

Cassandra Clifford

Cassandra Clifford is the Founder and Executive Director of Bridge to Freedom Foundation, which works to enhance and improve the services and opportunities available to survivors of modern slavery. She holds an M.A., International Relations from Dublin City University in Ireland, as well as a B.A., Marketing and A.S., Fashion Merchandise/Marketing from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island.

Cassandra has previously worked in both the corporate and charity sector for various industries and causes, including; Child Trafficking, Learning Disabilities, Publishing, Marketing, Public Relations and Fashion. Currently Cassandra is conducting independent research on the use of rape as a weapon of war, as well as America’s Pimp Culture and its Impact on Modern Slavery. In addition to her many purists Cassandra is also working to develop a series of children’s books.

Cassandra currently resides in the Washington, D.C. metro area, where she also writes for the Examiner, as the DC Human Rights Examiner, and serves as an active leadership member of DC Stop Modern Slavery.


Areas of Focus:
Children's Rights; Human Rights; Conflict