DC Walk Shows the Power in Community to Fight Modern Slavery

On October 23, 2010, over 2,000 registered walkers took part in the DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk taking the National Mall by storm. The walk culminated with speakers, live music, and an information fair. The event was the largest of its kind in the history of the Nation’s Capital to raise public awareness about modern slavery in the United States and abroad.

Modern slavery, also known as as human trafficking, plagues an estimated 27 million across the globe.  This crime against humanity is the second largest illicit industry in the world and occurs in every corner of the globe…including Washington, DC.  Modern slavery takes forms, including forced labor, involuntary domestic servitude and child sex trafficking, among other types.

Thanks to the events walkers, partners, and sponsors the more than $100,000 was raised. Proceeds from the walk will be distributed to DC-based partner organizations combating modern slavery and working to rehabilitate survivors, as well as support next year’s walk efforts.

“The purpose of planning this walk is to raise awareness about human trafficking and to demonstrate that we won’t tolerate slavery anywhere,” said Jessica Li, lead organizer of the walk.

This event was organized entirely by volunteers, highlights the crucial and substantial impact that individuals can have to combat modern slavery.  The event was led by citizen activist group, DC Stop Modern Slavery (DC SMS). DC SMS was started in 2004 by a small group of concerned citizens and has grown quickly to some 850 members, emerging into a well organization group of volunteers who sought to create sustainable action in the community.  DC SMS achieves their mission by bringing education to the community through various public speaking and awareness events.