Oct. 14, 2017, the A21 Campaign is hosting their fourth annual Walk for Freedom. A21 is a nonprofit organization with a mission to end modern slavery. A21 has offices in 11 countries across the globe; they reach, rescue, and restore the lives of human trafficking victims. Each year, A21 utilizes their Walk for Freedom movement to raise funds and awareness for their cause. On the same day, multiple walks are held in multiple cities and countries all around the world.

The annual Walk for Freedom is set up so that all participants dress in all black and publicly walk in a silent single file line. This is to make a statement for those who are enslaved, right in our own backyard. A21 created their own t-shirts for participants to purchase, and encourage you to buy a yellow bandana as well. The yellow bandana has the name of a survivor transcribed onto it. The activists participating in the walk wear them around their mouths to symbolize that we are the voice for those who do not have the opportunity to speak up for themselves. Walk for Freedom is A21's largest fundraising and awareness campaign, and the corporation is anticipating for this year to be the biggest yet.

Human trafficking is modern-day slavery. Thousands of adults and children in our society are currently being exploited, whether it be sexually or for their labor. Human trafficking is a tragic epidemic, and it is prominent in cities around the world, even where we live. One of the major problems regarding the issue is a lack of awareness. Most of the population is unaware of the severity or only view it as a problem beyond our borders. That is not the case. Human trafficking is an impactful affair in every location.

The A21 Walk for Freedom Campaign is here to break that cycle. They believe in seeing slavery abolished in this lifetime. The awareness the movement brings forth is undeniable. Walk for Freedom is here to create a voice, make a statement and move one 'step' closer to a world where no one is enslaved. We will not stop fighting until that goal is achieved. It is possible; supporting the efforts of A21's campaign could mean freedom for someone else.

Here are ways you can help:

Listen: You can listen to the A21 podcast.

Speak: Do not be silent. Acknowledge the impact of human trafficking.

Shop: You can support A21 by buying from their online store.

Donate: A21 is always grateful for your contributions.

Human Trafficking is a widely spread issue. Fortunately with campaigns such as Walk for Freedom, there is hope.