Today is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day! I have had the chance to work with Advocate The Label recently, who is a non profit fashion brand that is helping to spread awareness on the issues and are helping tons of survivors to get help that they need.

Keep reading below…

[from Advocate The Label]

ADVOCATE [The Label] exists as a vehicle to raise funds for women and girls who have been the victims of human trafficking. We exist so that you can hold space for survivors through mission driven product - luxurious capsule pieces - that tell a story you can share over and over again. A story that will be part of the awareness and fund raising effort we so desperately need to end human trafficking.

We want to lift up those who don't have options, creating a safe space for restoration, and pathways into education and employment for long term success.

Information about Human Trafficking and the issues:

Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar industry worldwide, with an estimated 4.8 million victims in forced sexual exploitation globally. Of those victims, 1 million are children, with the average age of entry being just 11-14 years old. The growing trend of traffickers using online social media platforms to recruit and advertise targets has made it easier than ever to gain access to vulnerable children and teens.

The United States is ranked as one of the worst countries in the world for human trafficking, and California - with one of the highest rates of reported cases nationwide - consistently ranks as one of the worst offenders.

Although there’s a heroic effort being launched at the front end of the issue, there’s much less focus on the long-term health and success of victims, which has led to a dismal survivor to thriver rate.

Lack of funding and awareness means that survivors are left without viable pathways to success, and without strategic attention, the need for prosecution and survivor services will only increase.

Find more information about Advocate The Label and how they are helping HERE

Photography: Jess | By Darius

What Advocate [The label] does to help:

At ADVOCATE [The Label] we design luxury ethical pieces that directly impact survivor success. 100% profits support survivors by providing access to: 

• Safe shelter, where survivors can heal and find restoration;

• Whole-person holistic services such as trauma-informed therapy, mentorship and individualized life skills so they can flourish as they move away from a life of exploitation; and

• Pathways into education and employment to generate a strong life purpose and gain financial independence for long-term success.

By shopping the line you are helping a young women or child human trafficking survivor get the help that they need and also are helping to educate others in the process. Lets keep fighting this fight and spreading the word.