This is an Awareness Photography Campaign entitled, “What Do You Bring To This World”. I created it to bring the difficult issue of modern slavery into public space. Every year, I walk the streets of Chicago and ask the public to write on the palm of their hands what they believe they bring to the world to make it a better place. Then I invite them to share their thoughts as I photograph their hands. I have come across people from all over the world and without an exception, everyone pauses for a long moment to ponder on a question that undoubtedly, makes them look within. No matter the age, gender, or nationality, everyone yearns for Love and Compassion, Freedom and Care, Prosperity and Peace, Generosity and Kindness, Humor and Laughter, Positivity and Creativity, Joy and Empathy, Understanding and Happiness, Patience and Wisdom, all virtues that make us humans who care for one another.
Modern slavery is all around us. It is present in the cloths we wear, the electronics we use, and the food we eat. There is also a correlation between modern slavery and climate change: two global issues that are disrupting the lives of all of us, specially the most vulnerable members of society who are displaced to unknown territories where they become pray to traffickers.
The magnitude of this human rights violation cannot be denied, and yet, we as consumers, have the power to change the course of this issue. Our freedom to consume whatever we want comes with a responsibility, the responsibility to act with care. So, let’s purchase products from companies that show transparency in their supply chain and make those companies accountable. Let’s support socially conscious businesses that are fair trade certified, and let’s support modern abolitionist individuals and organizations dedicated to restore the lives of millions of men, women, and children who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, just like us.
There are over 40 million human beings enslaved around the world today. Let’s make history, and take a stand to end modern day slavery. We can do this. We truly can!
If you wish to be part of this initiative, click here.
If you wish to be part of this campaign, no matter where you live, send me a photo of you with your personal message, here. Make sure that your hand is in focus and your face is in the background out of focus. Thank you for being part of the solution!