Breaking Chains and Building Dreams
January marks Sex Trafficking Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on the insidious issue that affects countless lives globally. In the fight against human trafficking, two remarkable organizations, Eden and the Starfish Project, stand as beacons of hope and catalysts for change. Through their jewelry sales, they not only raise awareness, rescue and rehabilitation of survivors, but also actively contribute to providing sustainable employment and the realization of dreams through education.
Did you know According to the ILO, 49.6 million people are trapped in modern-day slavery. Brands like Eden and starfish Project do what they do with the key objective being to rescue, rehabilitate and restore women who have been victims of sex trafficking.
Both of these brands programs are based in South-East Asia which is host to more than half of the global total of human trafficking victims.
Starfish Project employ 180 survivors and have saved thousands! Their approach to combating sex trafficking focuses on the rehabilitation and empowerment of survivors. This organization recognizes that each rescued individual is like a starfish washed ashore, and by making a difference in one life, they contribute to a ripple effect of change.
Starfish Project operates on a social enterprise model, providing employment opportunities for survivors through their jewelry-making program. By teaching valuable skills and offering fair wages, the organization not only helps survivors rebuild their lives but also fosters a sense of purpose and self-sufficiency.
This is what they accomplished in 2022 (HUGE accomplishment given the impacts of Covid restrictions):
Source: Starfish Project Annual Report 2022.
Moreover, the Starfish Project invests in holistic aftercare services, including counseling, vocational training, and educational support. This comprehensive approach ensures that survivors are not only rescued from the clutches of trafficking but are also given the tools to thrive independently.
Eden, also focuses on prevention, intervention, and restoration. Their focus is addressing the root causes of trafficking, Eden aims to create a world where vulnerable individuals are not at risk of exploitation. The organization employs a multifaceted approach, combining education, community outreach, and advocacy to empower at-risk populations.
In 2014, Eden embarked on a mission in Myanmar, a nation grappling with the pervasive issue of human trafficking. The roots of this crisis lie deep within the realms of political instability, natural disasters, and internal ethnic conflicts, resulting in a bleak landscape of opportunities for the people of Myanmar.
At the heart of Myanmar's human trafficking crisis is the intersection of poverty and political unrest. Over the years, this predicament has only intensified, aggravated further by the economic collapse triggered by the pandemic and political upheaval. In the face of this escalating crisis, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and not-for-profit entities like Eden have stepped in to bridge the gap and extend vital support to victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Source: Eden's Web site
Like Starfish Project, Eden's journey unfolds through a relationship-focused and trauma-informed approach to programming, reaching out to individuals at high risk of trafficking and those ensnared in the red-light districts of Yangon, and Northern and Eastern Shan state. This unique access enables Eden to identify and assist previously unknown victims of human trafficking while also gathering essential migration tracking data. The innovative design of their programs tackles the root causes of trafficking, significantly reducing re-trafficking rates and fostering sustainable reintegration after program completion.
Every piece of jewelry purchased from Eden and Starfish Project directly contributes to supporting the women involved and fuels a range of impactful programs such as;
Outreach: Extending a helping hand to those at high risk of trafficking.
Drop-in Centers: Providing safe spaces for victims to seek refuge and support.
Emergency Shelters: Offering immediate assistance and protection to those in need.
Trauma Counseling: Addressing the emotional scars inflicted by trafficking experiences.
Vocational Training: Empowering survivors with skills for a brighter future with sustainable employment.
Economic Empowerment: Creating avenues for financial independence and stability. Such as education programs.
Community Education: Raising awareness to prevent trafficking and exploitation.
During Sex Trafficking Awareness Month, it is crucial to acknowledge the commendable work of organizations like Eden and the Starfish Project. Their unwavering dedication to prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation illuminates the path toward a future free from the shackles of sex trafficking. By supporting and spreading awareness about these brands, we contribute to the collective effort to eradicate this heinous crime and create a world where every individual can live free from exploitation.
Together we can change the world! Thanks to brands like this and customers like you!
Love,
Yvie
PS If you want to see our range of these two brands click on these links:
Eden (Please note new drop will be put online end of day 16/01/2024). Here is a sample of what will be going online :
