We’re on our way back from Washington. Our
client there is a philanthropic organization called Humanity United.

One of their projects is the formation of a
coalition called ATEST. (The alliance to end slavery and trafficking.)

Currently the coalition has nine member
organizations. Each of them focusing on a different aspect of slavery and, or,
human trafficking.

We’re helping them shape the ‘brand’ and
figure out how ATEST might position itself, and communicate going forward.

It’s been a fascinating few days. We’ve
been discovering the truth behind modern-day slavery, and it isn’t pretty.

Legal nowhere, modern-day slavery is prevalent in every corner of the world Figures suggest that there are currently 27
million slaves on earth.

Half of them are children.

20% of them are working in the global sex
industry.

Slavery is Europe’s second biggest illicit
industry after the arms trade.

There’s every chance slaves are making your
mobile phone. Cleaning your office. Washing up in your favourite restaurant. Looking after the children next door.

Killing time, we browse the duty free shops
at Dulles airport.

One of the concessions is offering three ‘I
love Washington’ t shirts for $15. ‘I’ll take some home for the kids’ I think
to myself.

And then I think again.