Plymouth Church hosts symposium about ending modern-day slavery
Plymouth Church, from its founding in the 19th century, became a pioneer for freedom and served as part of the Underground Railroad. Now in the 21st century, the landmark church continues to fight against forms of modern-day slavery. Friday, Jan. 11 is recognized worldwide as Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and that evening Plymouth will host an educational symposium on this human rights crisis.
President Barack Obama has proclaimed January 2013 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time for Americans to recognize the vital role that citizens can play in ending all forms of slavery. As we reach the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation (signed Jan. 1, 1863), new attention is being focused on those individuals still held against their will.
The January 11 symposium will provide an overview of contemporary slavery and its impact on victims at home and abroad, and will offer new ideas regarding how individuals and communities can fight human exploitation and support its victims.