I’ve learned a lot of things through my job over the last two-and-a-half years. This month, I’ve learned something very sobering.

27 million men, women, and children are in slavery worldwide.

I realized slavery still existed in various places, but I hadn’t given it much thought. Enter #enditmovement.

The End It movement is striving to end slavery worldwide. Now, a lot of us are probably thinking, “What can I do? I’m just one person in [enter your town].”

Yes, that is true. You are just one person. As with any large issue, awareness is the first step. If we’re not aware, we don’t realize there’s anything to be done. You can help spread awareness tomorrow, Thursday the 27th. Place a red X on your hand and share it on your social media channels. You can help others realize slavery is still very much present.

Men, women, and children are sold.

While you’re watching your children play, think of the children forced into slave labor.

When you sit with your husband watching TV, think of the men in slavery torn away from their families.

As you wash your dishes, think of the women who are paraded around as sex objects.

Now what?

I know I have already become more thoughtful about this subject. As I was rinsing my rice the other night, I thought of women in countries on the other side of the world and how many of them aren’t safe like I am. As I pondered the End It cause, my boys happily played Legos in the same room. There are many children who don’t get that luxury.

As you think of these people in these horrible situations, you can pray for them. If you would like to help an organization that is assisting women and children around the world, visit WellspringInternational.com.

You may also want to educate your children. In addition to helping them understand at an age-appropriate level that slavery still exists, teach them how to be aware of their surroundings and “stranger danger”. Help your pre-teen and teen girls understand that their value is more than their body. Teach them how to avoid the traps that are out there.

Will you help spread the word? If you decide to join in on Instagram, tag me @manyhatsmommy so I can see!

Here is more reading on human trafficking in the United States.