Human slavery exists all over the world and its victims desperately need help. An estimated 24.9 million people are trapped in this abject travesty, forced into labor: organ harvesting, prostitution, mining, construction, domestic work, agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, processing, packaging, and more.  

The truth is all slavery stems from systemic poverty, racism, and the absence of economic freedoms. Hundreds of years ago, when Europeans began to imperialize Africa, the existing tribes and cultures were disparaged. 

Today, there are more slaves than ever. It is estimated traffickers take in over 150 billion dollars a year. In 1809, the average price of a slave was $400-$500. Today, the average cost of a slave is $90. 

The tentacles of slavery insidiously grip the world. Whether a victim is being forced to work in unsanitary and dangerous working conditions or coerced into unwanted sexual acts, the events that victims endure are unacceptable. The 24.9 million victims in the world need help. For 20 ways you can help fight human trafficking, check out https://www.state.gov/20-ways-you-can-help-fight-human-trafficking/.