International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Advocating for freedom, dignity, and justice, striving to end exploitation and oppression for a brighter, equitable future.
When one person profits by exploiting another person, modern slavery occurs – through forced labor, forced marriages or human trafficking, the control may be physical, financial or psychological. Many times, modern slavery includes child labor as well as forced participation of children in armed conflict.
With approximately 50 million vulnerable people living in situations of slavery, there remains a deep need to raise awareness and work toward ending slavery.
In every country of the world incidences of slavery continue, even in what are considered to be wealthier or higher income nations.
In the past decade, the estimated numbers of people who have been forced into conditions of labor or marriage slavery has grown by 10 million, with women and children remaining disproportionately vulnerable.
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery works to bring attention to and act as an urgent call of action to bring an end to this critical violation of human rights in the modern world.
History of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Founded in 1986, the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery was established by the United Nations General Assembly with the purpose of commemorating the adoption of the Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others, which took place in 1949.
This event draws attention to the continued need for the world to work together so that every individual on the planet can live within their basic human rights.
This includes fighting against issues such as bonded labor as well as human trafficking. This day provides opportunities for governments, non-profit organizations, communities, civic groups and individuals to improve public awareness about the continued need to fight against slavery.
How to Celebrate International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Try many different ways to get involved with and participate in the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, including some of these ideas:
Raise Awareness Against Slavery
Getting the word out about ways to promote freedom for all is an important part of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery.
Individuals can participate by getting educated and then sharing information about slavery through social media or personally with family members, coworkers and neighbors.
Groups such as schools, community projects and churches can work together to improve public education about the issues through events and activities that invite people to learn more and get involved with the fight against modern slavery.
Join an Anti-Slavery Campaign
Get connected with others who are also committed to resisting for freedom by joining up with an organization that works to fight for the rights of those who cannot fight for themselves.
A number of different non-profit organizations fight for human rights and International Day for the Abolition of Slavery might be just the motivation that is needed to join up with others.
Consider participating with activities and events put on by one of these charities in celebration of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery:
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery FAQs
How did the Haitian Revolution influence the abolition of slavery worldwide?
The Haitian Revolution (1791–1804) was the first successful slave revolt, leading to Haiti’s independence. This uprising inspired global movements against slavery and colonialism.
What role did quilts play in the Underground Railroad?
Some believe quilts contained coded patterns guiding enslaved people to freedom. However, historians debate the accuracy of this claim.
Which country was the last to abolish slavery, and when?
Mauritania was the last country to abolish slavery, officially doing so in 1981. Despite this, illegal slavery practices persist.
How do some communities in Ghana commemorate the abolition of slavery?
In Ghana, the Emancipation Day festival includes reenactments, music, and dance to honor ancestors and celebrate freedom.
Is it true that the British Parliament compensated slave owners after abolition?
Yes, in 1833, the British government paid £20 million to slave owners as compensation, a controversial decision.
What is the ‘Door of No Return’ significance in Senegal?
The ‘Door of No Return’ on Gorée Island symbolizes the final exit point of enslaved Africans being shipped to the Americas.
Did any enslaved individuals become prominent abolitionists?
Yes, figures like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman escaped slavery and became leading voices in the abolitionist movement.
How did the Amistad case impact the abolitionist movement in the U.S.?
The 1839 Amistad case, where enslaved Africans took control of a ship, led to a Supreme Court ruling in their favor, bolstering abolitionist efforts.
Are there any modern symbols used to represent the fight against slavery?
The ‘Abolitionist Knot’ is a symbol used by some organizations to represent the ongoing fight against modern slavery.
How do some countries incorporate the history of slavery into their education systems?
Countries like Brazil have integrated Afro-Brazilian history and culture into school curricula to acknowledge and educate about the legacy of slavery.
See what else is happening…
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