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Creating a network of
modern-day abolitionists and
using a living systems approach
to address human trafficking
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The Abolitionist Network is a relational network, Equipping, Connecting and Refreshing abolitionists who are highly networked in their local communities.
What we do
Human Trafficking is a highly networked criminal enterprise, and to combat it we must build a smart, high functioning counter-human trafficking network strategy. The Abolitionist Network is one piece of this larger network of networks, operating mostly behind the scenes to help establish these relational connections through:
Equipping :
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Learning teams, listening and building relationships, to understand the systems of trafficking and pursue effective application of tools and resources to prevent, combat and ultimately end slavery in its various complex and interconnected forms. These learning teams and workshops are taking place locally around MA, and also internationally, most recently with our friends in India.
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Trainings and one-on-one coaching to equip abolitionists, coalitions, churches, and the broader community in discovering their part in the movement, and having the resources they need to join in.
Connecting:
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Host Gatherings locally to provide spaces for networking, building relationships among various groups and individuals who are engaged across the systems to counter human trafficking.
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Conversations over the phone, regular email communications and in person meetings to stay intouch with abolitionists and make introductions between them to connect those who share similar passion and vision locally, nationally and internationally.
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Learn the landscape of who is where, listen to what the needs of the system really are, and assist in connecting resources to those needs.
Refreshing:
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Host Retreats (one or two a year) of rest and refreshment for leaders in the abolitionist movement, to fight against isolation and burn-out and instead build healthy community in the movement. Questions shaping these retreats: How do we rest in the midst of the storm? What does it mean to keep the Sabbath as we give our all to fight against human trafficking and bring freedom to those in bondage? (Isaiah 58:13-14)
Why we do it
Millions of men, women and children are still bought and sold into forced labor and sexual exploitation around the world today. The efforts to combat this atrocity--called human trafficking--are too often disconnected and they lack an understanding of the whole complex systemic context. The leaders in the movement who are trying to build these netoworks and coalitions soon get isolated, overwhelmed and discouraged.
The complexity of what perpetuates human trafficking must be addressed in the global context of criminal behavior, economic corruption and other forms of trafficking and exploitation. From a global lense, we must develop effective ways to engage these systems, and the structures that support them, for positive change.
The Systems of Human Trafficking/Slavery - mapped out
Resources
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