Causes of Modern Day Slavery

There are three major root causes of modern day slavery.  First is poverty ,  second is the human tendency for greed capitalizing on conditions caused by globalization, and the third is a lack of education and awareness of modern slavery in both victims and the public at large.

Of the three, poverty stands out the major root causes of modern day slavery. Those most affected by modern day slavery are living in the third world (http://www.moderndayslavesmovie.com). They are subject to exploitation because their poverty makes them vulnerable. Conditions that affect third world countries the most such as environmental degradation, effects of globalization, government corruption and lawlessness, and natural disasters, make them excellent praying grounds for the slave trade.
Second is the feminization of poverty.  Women are affected the worst during times of economic distress because of various reasons. Like: Women often have lower social and economic status than men. (Women are frequently sold by their families into slavery because they are not valued as much as men:http://www.thepinkroommovie.com). There is a ever-present gender wage gap. Women need to play multiple roles and their lack of time limits their access to formal employment and general advancement.

Finally, there is the issue of lack of education and awareness. Those who are poor and vulnerable to becoming enslaved are easily persuaded and tricked by slave traffickers.

Anyone can report suspected trafficking cases. If the victim is under 18, U.S. professionals who work in law enforcement, healthcare, social care, mental health, and education are mandated to report such cases.

Please join us in creating /spreading public awareness campaign.  If you are in the area of San Jose and Milpitas-- a documentary movie about human slavery -- Modern Day Slaves will be screened on April 17 at Milpitas Library from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.