WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME
Independence Day is one of my favorite holidays simply because it celebrates the fundamental tenant of freedom, something about which I am deeply passionate. 241 years ago, 56 delegates to the Continental Congress signed the most incredible document in our nation’s history, the Declaration of Independence.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”
This bold statement that our rights come from our Creator, not from men, is empowering; that we are free to dream and be fueled by ambition is encouraging; that anything less than living in True Freedom is contrary to our purpose, is revolutionary. This is why I am in the fight to end human trafficking.
While this is an American document that spurred the establishment of the United States of America, the role of freedom in life is not limited by our borders and shores. Traffickers rob young women their freedom in places like India, Mexico, and Uganda. Girls in the United States are exploited, manipulated, and abused right here in our city streets. These victims have been endowed by their Creator with the same inalienable rights as you and me, but someone has taken them away through force, fraud, or coercion.
That’s why rescue efforts by our anti-trafficking partners are so crucial. They break the first chains of captivity. I can’t imagine the situation we would be in without their courage and determination.
But what about the emotional and mental chains? How can people escaping trafficking transition from physical freedom to living in True Freedom, where they can make decisions for themselves, develop positive and authentic relationships, be financially stable, and overcome their insecurities? How can they pursue their Happiness?
International Sanctuary. The road to freedom starts when the doors of a Sanctuary open. In these safe, healing communities, young women and girls can find space to learn while surrounded by love and grace. They can establish a career path and become leaders and providers thanks to our social enterprise, Purpose Jewelry.
The 56 men whose names inked on the Declaration of Independence pledged their “Lives, [their] Fortunes, and [their] Sacred Honor” so that their countrymen could live in True Freedom. What can we pledge?
Instead of your life, could we have a couple of hours of your time? Host a Trunk Show
Instead of your fortunes, would you consider a monthly or one-time gift? Click to Give
Instead of your sacred honor, would you introduce 3 friends to International Sanctuary?
Every journey starts with a step - will you walk with me?
This blog was written by Ashley McCully, International Sanctuary’s Development Coordinator