Anti-Slavery Day on Sunday, 18 October, raises awareness about modern day slavery. It provides the chance to encourage government, local authorities, public institutions, companies and individuals to tackle human trafficking. 

In an age that celebrates freedom, equality and opportunity, it’s unbelievable that slavery and trafficking still exists. Around the world almost 30 million people are trapped in modern slavery, living as forced labourers, forced prostitutes, child soldiers and child brides in forced marriages. Human trafficking strips people of their rights and ignores the inherent dignity and value we each have.  

Slavery is big business. Profits made off the back of these victims are estimated at US $150 billion a year. Tragically, it’s the fastest growing international crime and one of the largest income sources for organised crime. 

Anti-Slavery Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate and champion freedom, but more importantly to seriously think about what we can do to stamp out slavery for good. 

Desmond Tutu said: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” Anti-Slavery Day is our opportunity to do some good, to join together and overwhelm the world with positive change in the hope that everyone can have the freedom, equality and opportunity they deserve. 

There are so many ways you can get involved with Anti-Slavery Day. Below you’ll find some helpful ideas to get you started. 

All anti-slavery events – You can find details about events across the country at the Anti-Slavery Day website.

CARE Anti-Slavery Day resources - You can view CARE's excellent resources on their website. 

A21 Walk for Freedom - A21 is a campaign fighting human trafficking. They are organising a walk for Anti-Slavery Day in various locations. Find out where the closest one to you is or organise one yourself.

Cycle for Freedom - Sport for Freedom uses sports to raise awareness and tackle modern slavery and trafficking. For Anti-Slavery Day they are organising Cycle for Freedom. You can join them on Sunday, 18 October to ride the Olympic cycling route in London.

Tearfund Bake Off - You can help Tearfund raise funds to protect vulnerable children. Order your free pack from their website. At the Alliance we're holding our Bake Off on Wednesday, 9 September.

Freedom Sunday – This is a global day of worship, prayer and action on human trafficking. You can find out how your church can get involved and access great resources on their website.

The Anti-Slavery Day Bill, introduced by Anthony Steen MP, became law in 2010. Modern-day slavery is defined as child trafficking, forced labour, domestic servitude and trafficking for sexual exploitation.