Free the Slaves facts for kids
| Abbreviation | FTS |
|---|---|
| Formation | 2000 |
| Type | NGO |
| Purpose | Combat human trafficking and slavery |
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C. |
| Location |
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Main organ
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Board of Directors |
Free the Slaves (FTS) is an international group that works to end modern slavery. It is a non-governmental organization, meaning it is not part of any government. FTS also acts as a lobby group, trying to influence laws and policies.
The group was started in 2000. It grew from research by Kevin Bales. His book, Disposable People: New Slavery in the Global Economy, showed how slavery still exists today. Free the Slaves works to free people who are forced to work against their will. They also help these people rebuild their lives.
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How Free the Slaves Helps
Free the Slaves works in many countries around the world. They focus on places where slavery is a big problem. Their goal is to help people escape from forced labor. They also work to prevent others from becoming slaves.
Where FTS Works
Currently, Free the Slaves helps people in several countries. These include India, Nepal, and Ghana. They also work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Haiti. Other countries are Senegal, the Dominican Republic, and Brazil. They choose these places because many people there are trapped in slavery.
Freedom Awards
Free the Slaves also honors people who fight against slavery. They give out "Freedom Awards" to special individuals and groups. These awards celebrate those who make a big difference. Past winners include Veeru Kohli in 2009. Timea Nagy received the award in 2012.
Who Supports Free the Slaves
Many people, including famous musicians and actors, support Free the Slaves. They help raise awareness and money for the cause.
Musicians Helping Out
Musicians like Jason Mraz have worked with FTS. Grammy Award winner Esperanza Spalding is also a big supporter. In 2012, she held a special concert to raise money for FTS. Other artists like Bobby McFerrin and Paul Simon joined her. Esperanza Spalding also raised money during her summer tours.
Actors and Other Supporters
Several actors have also shown their support for Free the Slaves. These include Carla Gugino and Vincent Kartheiser. Camilla Belle and Forest Whitaker have also helped. Famous actors Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher have supported the organization too.
