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Everyday Abolitionist is a recurring feature on the blog where we’ll hear firsthand from someone using their skills, talents, and opportunities to fight trafficking. This time around we have Nicole who is the founder of Lusso Bags. (Check out the Mrs. Bird Shoe and Accessory Bag in the STF Shop.)

 

How did you first find out about human trafficking?
My cousin told me about her trip to India where she visited a couple of social enterprises that enabled women to leave the sex trade and work as seamstresses.

What is it about the issue of trafficking that compelled you to action?
My heart broke when I heard that some women are sold by their families into sex slavery while others are forced into it due to poverty or deception. Oftentimes women and girls are offered jobs in a city far away, having no idea what they will be doing there. Knowing that Freeset provided a safe working environment, fair wages, child care, and health benefits convinced me that I had to work with them.

Describe how you’re using your talents and interests to fight trafficking.
I designed a simple product that travelers, parents, children, and anyone who cares about helping end human trafficking would have fun using. I have the women at Freeset sew our featured bag. Plus, we give back a portion of every purchase to help prevent human trafficking as well as to support the women who have been able to leave the sex trade.

Why is it important for people to get involved in stopping trafficking? 
Many people have no idea that human trafficking is occurring and many more do not realize that is it a huge problem in the USA. The more we spread the word, the more people will be aware and get involved with prevention.

What advice do you have for people who are interested in getting involved in trafficking but don’t know where to start?
Start small, start local. Email me! Buy Fair Trade products that enable people to earn a living wage so they won’t be forced to enter the sex trade out of desperation to feed their families. Educate yourself about the issues. You can find hundreds of small initiatives and dozens of larger ones dedicated to this cause on the internet. Two of my favorites are Not For Sale which informs about global issues and the Demi and Ashton Foundation which addresses domestic child sex trafficking. Contact congress to sign iniatives that will prevent further exploitation of human beings.

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