Next weekend marks an important milestone in American history: it will be 150 years since President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
On September 22, 1862, Lincoln ordered the release of slaves in Confederate states during the Civil War.
This anniversary is what educators call a “teachable moment.” That’s because outlawing slavery didn’t end it. There are more slaves in the world today than when Lincoln was president.
It’s up to us to finish what Lincoln started, and we can start by spreading the word that slavery is about more than history.
The Free the Slaves website is a key tool for building awareness — with Education Packs and fact sheets for teachers and students, a timeline about the history of slavery, first-person transcripts and films where modern slavery survivors speak out, and details of our innovative frontline solutions to help slaves break free and stay free.
Here’s something to think about: what would you advise Lincoln to do about modern slavery if he were president today? Start a conversation about that at schools, churches, dinner parties, book groups and community gatherings. It will let your friends know that slavery still exists, and that they should join you in helping to end it.
