Part I of this two-part blog series discussed three websites that can help you be a socially responsible consumer. Here are three more sites that sell goods made by survivors of human trafficking or that use fashion as a way to educate the public about human trafficking.
1. Made by Survivors – www.madebysurvivors.com
Made by Survivors (MBS) was founded by Sarah Symons and John Berger in 2005 after they both learned about the issue of human trafficking. After a visit to Maiti Nepal in Kathmandu, Nepal, Sarah learned about the need for self-sufficiency initiatives for survivors. Based on the premise that poverty combined with a lack of economic options, particularly for women, are root causes of trafficking, the idea for MBS came about.
Credit: www.madebysurvivors.com
Through hosting Home Awareness Parties, supporters can educate themselves and their friends about human trafficking and can purchase products made by survivors on the website. In addition, supporters can get involved by sponsoring the education of child survivors of trafficking, or those born to survivors.
2. Freedom and Fashion – www.freedomandfashion.com
The purpose of Freedom and Fashion is to educate society about various human rights injustices through “increasing the demand for socially responsible and ethically produced goods and ensuring they are readily available to consumers.”
Credit: www.freedomandfashion.tumblr.com
Freedom and Fashion aims to be a hub for fair trade by showcasing fair trade companies that provide sustainable models and non-profits that provide direct services to victims of trafficking. Through an annual fashion show, Freedom and Fashion showcases groups that are already involved in educating the public and producing ethically responsible goods. Through the use of their blog, magazine, and short films, Freedom and Fashion raises awareness and promotes these organizations.
3. Nomi Network – www.nominetwork.org
The premise behind Nomi Network is that removing a victim from physical harm and abuse is only half the battle. Rather, survivors should be empowered through supporting and sustaining local social enterprises providing survivors with opportunities for educational scholarships and desirable employment.
Credit: www.buyherbagnotherbody.com
To do this, Nomi Network provides hands-on training through a one-on-one mentorship program with experienced fashion industry professionals. These training sessions expose the women to new product development and design techniques and provide them with an opportunity to implement those techniques by creating products that are later sold internationally.
Collectively, these sites show us how we can use our everyday consumption habits for a greater good. By making informed, socially responsible decisions as consumers, we have the power to inspire manufacturers and suppliers to produce goods that are made free from slavery.