Nomi Network

Network for Change

2012-02-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Join fellow Christian MBAs and business professionals immediately following the 2012 Believers in Business Conference for a networking mixer. Proceeds go to benefit Nomi Network, a non-profit helping to create career paths for women at-risk and survivors of human trafficking through the fashion industry and economic development.

Date: Saturday, February 4th
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Location: Public House New York City, 140 East 41 St, NY, NY 10017
Tickets: $20 pre-sale and $25 at the door (includes 1 free drink ticket); cash bar (including $4 drafts, $5 house wine, and $6 mixed drinks)

Purchase tickets here!

For more information please visit www.nominetwork.org.

Reflections on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2012-01-31T12:55:00.002-08:00

“Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever.”

– Martin Luther King Jr. in Letter from a Birmingham Jail

With Diggs and Tweets, product lines and website designs, the modern abolitionist movement has come a long way from the sit-ins and boycotts, the demonstrations and protests of Dr. King’s civil rights movement. The letter of the law stands on the side of the abolitionists in nearly every country on earth. The Civil Disobedience that Dr. King practiced isn’t the answer to today’s struggle to end slavery. In fact, slavery would disappear if the laws were followed.

Centuries ago, the companies with royal charters traded gold, sugar and slaves across oceans. Built on slavery they grew into massive organizations, unstoppable juggernauts backed by law. But the work of but a few abolitionists ended that dark chapter of human history. Those who abuse children, traffic humans and operate brothels must do so in the shadows, must veil their activities with bribes and lies. There remains a great deal of work to do but the tide of battle has turned in the fight against slavery.

With the dedicated efforts of modern abolitionists, we may well see the end of the slave trade in our lifetimes. In light of that coming victory we abolitionists should not only look forward and develop new strategies for the 21st century but also look to the past and draw inspiration from the work of our predecessors.

“We must stand up amidst a system that still oppresses us
and develop an unassailable and majestic sense of values.”

“As long as the mind is enslaved, the body can never be free.”

–both quotes from his address to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ 1967

When we think of slavery in both its historical and current forms, we often think of the shackles, the ropes that bind the victim, the lash and gun that continues to threaten them. But these are only the physical emblems of slavery. The deeper, more insidious form of slavery is a systemic slavery that works invisibly and binds more surely than any manacle ever has. It takes the form of a slave owner telling his victim that because she was raped and brutalized, she is now worthless and should accept her destiny as a slave. It takes the form of slick talking middle men drawing up contracts to impress and bully the uneducated and impoverished into selling away their children. Educational initiatives are a necessary component to fighting slavery but along with an education that translates into economic security, abolitionists must also develop values education. Culture and poverty are strongholds that must be assailed if the captives are to be set free. It is not enough to legislate slavery into criminality.

The values of non-violence and human dignity that Dr. King held forth need to be communicated abroad. Not only to the globalized cities easily accessible via internet and airports but to the places where human trafficking and slavery thrive, in places of deep, global poverty. One fundamental value that must always be communicated is that at no point can a human being ever be deprived of his intrinsic dignity.

“The time is always right to do what’s right.”

– from his speech at Oberlin College, 1964

And so, one final thought on Martin Luther King Jr. and modern day abolition. The struggle for freedom has come a long way but more still needs to be done. There are still 27 million slaves yearning for liberty and if Dr. King has taught us anything it is that injustice everywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

- Stanley Lee

Nomi Network in the Press

2012-01-31T10:13:00.000-08:00

The word is being spread about Nomi Network! Recently the holiday season brought about a huge amount of support from bloggers and columnists of lifestyle websites. Here are some brief recaps from some of these exciting features:

“Christmas Shopping The Way It Should Be” was a post featured on JSpace, a Jewish community website with content about events and culture. Danielle, the author of the article, mentions the uniqueness of the Union Square Holiday Market and how supporting these vendors supports local economics. She mentions how buying products from Nomi ultimately is a gift not only for the buyer themselves but also for the greater good.

http://www.jspace.com/guide/articles/christmas-shopping-the-way-it-should-be/6637

Mama Buzz is a growing blog with inspirational articles for women in their day-to-day lives. The site provides a huge realm of information, from recipes to movie reviews. Mel, the author of the blog, is passionate about sharing inspiration to other moms like herself. In the article, she touches on Nomi’s heart behind why it was first started. The piece features Nomi’s founders’, Diana Mao and Alissa Moore’s sharing on their heart to give women a voice. The article also gives information about how one can get involved with Nomi Network.

http://www.mamabzz.com/2012/01/nomi-network-buy-her-bag-not-her-body-2.html

5 Minutes for Mom.com wrote a great article highlighting Nomi’s ‘Sitting Taller Booster Seat.’ This product works great for young children who may need a little help reaching the table. A comfy booster cushion is held in a child sized backpack made of the same unique and durable recycled rice material from which all Nomi Network products are made. The bright colors and ideal size are perfect for children to carry around. When the bag is not carrying the seat cushion it can be used by the children to hold anything they need, from crayons to dolls. Susan, the author of the post, said that she needs one for each of her children now because they argue over the booster seat bag all the time!

http://www.5minutesformom.com/49143/booster-seat-in-a-backpack/

- Caroline Hughes

Nomi Network Fashion Corner: Carrie Parry

2012-01-31T10:11:00.000-08:00

We always have our eyes open for the next rising designer with a commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable materials and practices. Recently, American designer and New York resident, Carrie Parry, has stolen our hearts. Ms. Parry graduated from the Central Saint Martins at the University of the Arts in London and has already captured some serious recognition for her ethically minded work. Most recently she won the Category 2 award, plus €15,000 in prize money at the Green Competition at Amsterdam Fashion Week. She also won the Ethical Fashion’s 2011 Innovation U.S.A. Award as well as a spot at the competitive Designer and Agents’ Green Room.

Parry has a very interesting resume including working on the set of Memoirs of a Geisha and with the retro-themed Gifford’s Circus, however the aspect of her work that really made us fall head over heals was her commitment to sourcing her materials for a women’s collective in India. Parry has established relationships with her vendors, including Panchachuli, an independent weaving cooperative in India that employs more than 800 women from 32 villages.

Check out her inspiring but non-pretentious debut collection, “Mrs Montague,” here, including collars, cuffs, and bows that are interchangeable, and add flexibility to this business casual attire. http://www.ecouterre.com/carrie-parrys-modular-eco-fashion-line-lets-you-mix-match-components-at-will/

- Alissa Moore

Spotlight on Aram Bashian

2012-01-31T10:08:00.000-08:00

Our newest male designer, Aram Bashian has brought his creativity and inspiration in designing our newest plaid, stitched wallets and in creating our Spring 2012 Collection. Aram’s design specifications has helped introduce the women we work with in Cambodia to new styles and stitching techniques, and increased their skill-set in producing the latest trends. With his keen eye and passion to eradicating modern-day slavery, Aram continues to lend his expertise to Nomi Network to bring hope and a sustainable future to survivors and women at-risk. Read more about Aram and where he finds his inspiration below.

What brought you to NYC?

I grew up on the other side of the river in North Jersey and went to school at FIT in NYC so New York has never been far from home.

How did you hear about Nomi Network?

I attended a Redeemer Presbyterian Church small group for the Fashion Industry and heard Supei Liu, Nomi’s Lead Product Developer, speak about Nomi and felt compelled to lend my creative abilities to this wonderful cause.

What motivates you to be a part of Nomi Network?

Knowing that when I design for Nomi the gift God gave me is being used to positively impact the world around me.

What inspires your design? What inspires you in general?

I believe that good design must be functional so architecture, vintage garments, and general industrial design/packaging all inform what I create. The double-edged sword of being a designer is that I am always working whether I'm grocery shopping or at a museum or listening to music. Everything is processed through that filter and being picked apart to find something to draw from.

What is your favorite Nomi product and why?

The convertible tote. It’s the perfect marriage of functional design that I love and it’s fit for a guy or girl.

What advice would you give to designers that want to create a cause-oriented product?

Make sure what you bring to the market is 1. Well designed and well priced, 2. Stands on its own and differentiates itself from everything else that's out there, 3. Has a great "story" behind it because people want to connect with what they buy and 4. that your logistics are in order (meaning, how are you actually getting it into your customers' hands?).

- Lisa Kim

Closing the Economic Gender Gap

2011-12-29T15:21:00.001-08:00

As the founder of an anti-sex trafficking organization, in country after country that I have visited, I have observed a strong correlation between high levels of sex trafficking and unequal economic opportunities for women. This tells me that closing the income gap between men and women will go a long way to help reduce sex trafficking. In the November 26 issue of The Economist, in an article titled, “Closing the Gap,” author Barbara Beck shows the worldwide economic disparities between the genders. Beck cites Kevin Daly of Goldman Sachs who estimates that closing the gap between male and female employment rates would have major implications for the global economy – mainly boosting the United States GDP by as much as 9%, Eurozone’s GDP by 13%, and the Japanese GDP by 16%.

This is no surprise given the fact that women are spenders. The global cosmetic market alone was forecasted by Europemonitor International to exceed $300 billion in 2010. Clearly, the elimination of the economic gender gap would benefit everyone. Women spend money on the 3 P’s - products, people, and other priorities. Studies show that women are more likely to invest their paycheck on improving health, education, and infrastructure. Based on these variables, shouldn’t putting more dollars in the pockets of women not only increase the GDP but also improve the social economic state of the economy? This would be an ideal scenario, but narrowing the gap in economic disparity between men and women still seems beyond reach.

According the World Economic Forum, in countries like Turkey, South Africa, Malta, Thailand, and even the United States, opportunities are scarce for women. The United States ranks high in the proportion of women who participate in the economy but lags in the proportion of women at higher levels. This is commonly known as the “glass ceiling.” In contrast, economic opportunities are plentiful for women in Nordic countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Notably, sex-trafficking in the Nordic countries is among the lowest in the world. In the Nordic countries, policies, both economical and political, work hand in hand to prevent women and children from being commoditized. This is not the case for Thailand, South Africa, or even the United States—countries where sex-trafficking thrives.

This past year, for the first time ever, the United States Department of State included the U.S. in its annual Trafficking in Person’s Report. This is a good reminder that we in the U.S are not immune to the issue of sex trafficking. In fact, virtually every global study of human trafficking cites the United States as a prime destination for trafficked sex slaves. The U.S. will soon have to face the fact that sex-trafficking is not something that just happens overseas. According to Harvard researcher Siddharth Kara, sex-trafficking was a $38 billion industry in 2010, globally.

Although research about the correlation between economic opportunities for women and sex-trafficking is scant, it is easy to conclude that giving women more economic opportunities as well as spending power will increase consumption in legitimate sectors and spur economic growth. Economic parity for women seems to be a win-win for everyone; however, with limited investment into their education and training globally, we have a long way to go. According to the United Nations, two thirds of women are illiterate among the 774 million illiterate adults in the world. Perhaps recognizing the fact that gender income disparity perpetuates sex-trafficking is a start to addressing this issue through a more targeted approach.

- Diana Mao

NYC Restaurant Supports Nomi Network

2011-12-29T15:17:00.000-08:00

On December 6 Nomi Network’s executive team in partnership with the NYC based German restaurant, Wechsler’s Currywurst and Bratwurst (120 1st Avenue, New York NY), hosted a gathering to introduce customers and new friends and acquaintances to the organization’s mission of leveraging the marketplace to eradicate human trafficking. The restaurant displayed products along their counter tops as well as brochures and a container for a business card raffle. There was a diverse mix of individuals in attendance, including employees of financial, marketing and legal firms, journalists, and health industry professionals. The cozy space created a festive atmosphere and attendees stayed late into the evening sampling the restaurants’ specialty beers and authentic German street food.

Nomi Network team members chatted with guests as adept hostesses, Misty Shores and Sho-Joung Kim-Wechsler helped serve guests and skillfully usher people to seats while simultaneously sharing about the global issue of human trafficking and Nomi Network’s mission. Restaurant owner, Andre Wechsler, a native of Germany, left his job in finance in 2008 to open Wechsler’s Currywurst and Bratwurst. His ancestry included a lineage of Bavarian butchers and he was inspired to follow in their footsteps, making authentic German food and culture available to New Yorkers. His restaurant has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Village Voice, NYMagazine, Timeout, and many others. Andre first heard about Nomi Network’s mission to fight human trafficking through his wife, Sho-Joung Kim-Wechsler.

Despite the rainy weather on the evening of the event, the gathering was warm and vibrant, and the connections vital to the growth of the organization. New York City is the epicenter of ideas that create wealth and social change. The Wechsler’s created an environment where this exchange took place effortlessly.

- Alissa Moore & Diana Mao

Nomi Network's Fashion Corner: Ethical Fashion Defined

2011-12-29T15:13:00.000-08:00

As holiday shopping draws to a close, many have spent countless hours entering stores and boutiques to purchase gifts for family and friends. As consumers, we can choose to purchase products that promote ‘ethical fashion’. Through our shopping decisions and habits we can begin to make better choices to help promote sustainability and ethics in one of the largest industries in the world.

‘Ethical’ fashion is becoming a new focus in various sectors of the fashion industry. Ethical fashion serves as an umbrella term in fashion including a number of issues. Ethical fashion includes: organic, fair-trade, vintage/second-hand, recycling, re-design or ‘up-cycling’, and technology. Ethical fashion is more than just a trend, it is a value shift stemming from informed consumers and value-driven fashion designers and companies.

Choosing to buy ‘ethical’ fashion is not about making a right or wrong decision in one’s purchases but rather committing to making an informed decision that coincides with one’s own ethical priorities. Fair trade practices provide fair wages and conditions for workers, farmers, and employees. Fair trade leads to sustainable growth and positive development in local communities around the world.

Purchasing vintage/second-hand apparel or recycled or up-cycled garments reduces the environmental impact of production and simultaneously reduces waste. According to some statistics, 90 million items of clothing end up in landfills each year. We can reduce this number by reducing our purchases of ‘disposable’ fashion and focus on thinking before we buy.

As informed consumers, we can think about where and how the product came into being, by whom and under what conditions the product was made, and how long we will personally use the product. Answering these questions will help us to understand the consequences of a single consumer’s choice.

Also, as informed consumers we have the power to vote. We vote with each ‘ethical’ fashion purchase, we vote to infuse a greater social and environmental responsibility into the fashion industry with each fair trade, eco-friendly purchase.

Below are some resources to learn more about ‘ethical’ fashion:

http://ecofriendlyfashion.blogspot.com/p/fashion-industry-facts.html

http://fairtradeusa.org/

http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/

http://globalactionthroughfashion.org/for-consumers/what-is-ethical-fashion/

- Sachiko Pettit

Church Partners Give the Gift of Freedom

2011-12-29T15:08:00.000-08:00

Over the Advent season, two churches invited Nomi Network to share their global mission of eradicating human trafficking.

Co-founder and Vice President Alissa Moore spoke at both Forefront Church and Everyday Church, joined by key volunteers Kala and Matt Mueller, Kelli McDaniel and Holly Ernst who helped sell Nomi Network bags to those in attendance.

The churches gave financially to the non-profit’s work by matching half the cost of each bag or item sold during the services. The generosity shown by both communities was truly inspiring and many of the items in their inventory sold out day-of. For the team, it was incredible to see hearts and minds impassioned by Nomi Network’s vision to empower victims of sexual slavery. Many attendees visited Nomi Network’s Holiday Booth at Union Square, and are still offering to volunteer their time and talent to contribute in specific areas.

In both churches, the warm reception of the attendees and the poignant message about the meaning of justice underlined the importance of giving back to the community and to those in need. It was clear that accepting people as they are is a gift that flows naturally from Forefront and Everyday Church members.

Nomi Network wants to thank Forefront and Everyday Church once again for their generosity and enthusiasm for our work. We are honored by these partnerships and are excited to see the growth that is bound to happen as these church bodies become a force of love and hope in both local and global communities.

- Don Torrance & Lisa Kim

Sustainable Carpentry for the Holidays

2011-12-29T15:03:00.001-08:00

Throughout the month of December Nomi Network’s booth at the Union Square Holiday Market was up and running and all a bustle with visitors. The colorful booth was outfitted with Nomi Network products made by survivors and women at risk of human trafficking, including hand bags, totes, and wallets, perfect for the gift giving season. Open everyday until Christmas Eve, the booth was persistently staffed by executive team members and volunteers alike who all testified that being a part of the market was a gift in and of itself. Everywhere you looked there were craftsmen and women displaying their work proudly for shoppers to see, purchase, and enjoy. They were not only selling their wares, but sharing their skills and creativity with the world. Since being a sales person is an art form unto itself, everyone working at the different booths had to be both nice as well as dedicated to their products. Nomi Network’s volunteers were just that. Whether it was rainy or sunny, mild or frigid, the Nomi Network team shared their story with visitors daily while raising awareness about human and sex trafficking.

When Nomi Network fist secured a booth at the Holiday Market, there was much work to be done before the market opened. A structure on which to display the products needed to be built and would hopefully reinforce the organization’s mission. Enter our highly capable carpenter: Brad Acopulos. When he first heard about the job, Brad was hesitant, but after speaking with Nomi Network’s lead product developer and the visionary for the holiday booth, Supei Liu, he was instantly onboard with the project. “Supei was so very nice and there was [such] a good human connection with her, that I felt comfortable taking on the job,” Brad said.

Due to Brad’s execution the shelving and display units in the booth made excellent use of the small space. Using bamboo he constructed two thin units that fit along either side of the narrow space, with shelves for storage underneath and bars creating a criss-cross framework above. The framework created rectangles on which hooks could be hung so that products could be displayed, as well as openings in which photos of the women Nomi Network works with could be seen. The main shelves on the units where made with trough-like counter tops that were filled with rice in order to help shoppers make the connection that the material being used to construct the products was recycled rice bag material. The reason Brad began working as a carpenter and constructing custom made furniture was more or less inspired from observing people. “I give the analogy that people are like furniture, once made really well, but over the years abused, neglected, worn out, and just not functional anymore, and thus [it] gets tossed out in the street. With furniture that was once well made, I say you can repurpose it, restore it, and combine the pieces in creative and functional ways as such, to produce a perfectly desirable and functional piece of furniture.”

Thanks to skilled individuals like Brad, Nomi Network was able to present their products to a growing New York audience this holiday season and count their experience as a Holiday Market vendor a true success!

- Caroline Hughes

Stories of Hope Fundraiser a Success

2011-10-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

On October 12^th 2011 Nomi Network hosted our 2^nd annual Cocktail and Awards Ceremony in New York City. With 170 people in attendance, we gathered to honor Dawn Conway of LexisNexis with Nomi Network’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award, as well as to announce Nomi Network’s expansion of programs into India.

In an effort to share about the event with our supporters who are not based in New York, we asked one of our wonderful volunteers, Caroline Hughes, to reflect on her experience at the cocktail and to share about the evening from her perspective. Below is her lovely recap. Special thanks goes to our Host Committee, our sponsors, our board of directors, our volunteers and our in-kind donors for making the evening possible! We hope you’ll join our mailing list and keep an eye out for future events and opportunities to engage!

It’s a Wednesday night just at dusk. I walked into the Scandinavian House located on Park Avenue only to be greeted by some of the loveliest and biggest smiling Nomi volunteers ever. As a volunteer for Nomi myself, I truly felt that sense of family that is entwined throughout the group of workers that make what the organization does possible.

After greeting people at the door for the first hour, I made my way upstairs to see my friends I invited and to check out the venue. It was flawless! Everything from the music of Bethany and a Guitar band to the red and yellow flowers on the table to the wonderful dresses the women were wearing – it was just simply picturesque!

After a little bit of munching on mouth-watering goat cheese and red pepper skewers, scrumptious Scandinavian meatballs, and delicious desserts paired with ginger flavored mixed drinks, Diana Mao, co-founder of Nomi Network, made her way to the front to begin the evening. She gracefully opened by explaining the true meaning of the night’s gathering - which is actually a sobering epidemic - sex trafficking. Nomi is a real girl who has been rescued from trafficking which is something the many young girls like her are still trapped in today. In fact, the UNICEF reports that of the sex workers from the Mekong part of Southeast Asia 30-35% are young girls ages 12-17 years old.“Nomi Network works to empower and protect surviving and at–risk women of sex trafficking specifically in Cambodia by leveraging the fashion industry to create sustainable job and educational opportunities that otherwise don't exist” (Nomi Network website).

JoJo Smith a representative from Goldman Sachs then introducedMinna Elias, member of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney cabinet. Congresswoman Maloney leads a strong fight in the political realm against sex trafficking and is the co-chair of the Congressional Human Trafficking Caucus.

Elias presented Nomi Network’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award to Dawn Conway of LexisNexis. Dawn manages the LexisNexis Cares program that encourages corporate volunteerism. The company has been a powerful leader in making more awareness about this crime through databases for social service workers and online training corpses. Also, Conway and LexisNexis have done a large amount of work in driving laws and educating people about the issue. After her presentation, there was a beautiful slideshow of pictures from the country of Cambodia while the band played.

The night ended with the winners of the silent auction and raffles announced along with the cutting of the tasty cake shaped like a Nomi Network bag. As I surveyed the crowd while people were departing, all I saw were smiles.

Leaving the event though, I still wanted to give more to the organization and ones similar to it. Buying products made by Buy Her Bag, Not Her Body and other lines that support women economically is one simple and fashionable way. Being involved in the political fight by letting your local congress people know about your cares and concerns, is another way to help. Also, demanding that policies be in place with corporations to not allow trafficking of any kind to be allowed during production. Volunteering and giving of your time and money (go to www.nominetwork.org) are some of the simplest but most impactful way to help. One way to practically share the love is to host a home party! If you’re interested, contacted supei@nominetwork.org.

Honestly, why spend your money on something as meaningless as a label. Stretch your purchase and make a statement that says you will not stand for injustice.

- Caroline Hughes

Spotlight on: Congresswoman Maloney’s Office

2011-10-31T19:45:00.000-07:00

In a press release dated October 5, 2011 Congresswoman Caroline Maloney’s office announced that an amendment introduced by Rep. Chris Murphy (D-CT), based on legislation authored by Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), was approved by a voice vote as part of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), H.R. 2830. The press release explained that, “the Maloney language would encourage companies with over $100 million in gross global receipts to post on their websites what policies they have in place to ensure their supply chains are free of slavery and human trafficking. It will increase transparency, allow consumers to make informed decisions, and motivate businesses to ensure humane practices throughout the supply chain.” We had the wonderful opportunity to interview Congresswoman Maloney’s Chief of Staff, Minna Elias, to dig a bit deeper into what we can continue to do to support more positive change.

First, congratulations on the revision of the “Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act.” How can everyday citizens further support this Act?

Congresswoman Maloney’s measure is one of many amendments to the law; her amendment will make it easier to know whether large corporations are benefitting from forced labor – and to know which ones have adopted policies specifically rejecting such goods. The Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act will make sure that the United States continues to protect trafficking victims and to take steps to combat trafficking both here and abroad. If you want to support the bill, call or write to your Representative and your Senators and ask them to co-sponsor the bill.

Congresswoman Maloney is one of the few politicians who has taken action to combat trafficking. Why do you think others have not joined the fight against trafficking?

Trafficking is actually an issue that has significant support on both sides of the aisle. The Congresswoman has taken a very strong interest in this issue since 1999 when she learned about Big Apple Oriental Tours, a company engaged in sex tourism. They would bring men abroad to meet prostitutes, advertising that they could meet as many women as they wanted. At the time there was no law directly banning the practice. The original Trafficking Victims Protection Act explicitly banned sex tourism and made it much easier to ban the practice. As the Congresswoman became more knowledgeable about trafficking in persons, she became increasingly interested in finding innovative ways to address the issue. Her End Demand for Sex Trafficking Act, which she sponsored along with Representative Deborah Pryce (R-OH) was included in a previous Trafficking Victims Protection Act reauthorization bill. The Congresswoman has found that the more members of Congress are educated about the problem of labor and sex trafficking, the stronger their resolve to take steps to combat it. It is always helpful for members to hear that their constituents are concerned about an issue and want them to get involved.

Nomi Network's model is sustainable because it leverages the purchasing power of consumers. It also provides education for women to overcome their current situation. Do you think the power of a strong business model can be a driving force in combatting trafficking?

One of Nomi Network’s strengths is its determination to provide women with a means of escape and to provide vulnerable families with a way to earn a living without selling their children into slavery. I applaud Nomi Network for giving trafficking victims a way to rebuild their lives and earn a decent living.

- Caroline Hughes

Learning From Lee Nesbit, Home Party Extraordinair

2011-10-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

Lee Nisbet was browsing through Boho magazine when she stumbled upon an article about Nomi Network’s mission to aid survivors and women at-risk of trafficking and how she could get involved: throw a home party. Since Nomi Network helps to provide employment for this population through product design and development, product sales are key to supplying these women with work. Home Parities give our supporters an opportunity to introduce our mission and sell our products to their friends in an intimate environment, and Lee immediately saw the importance of this endeavor. For her 40^th Birthday, Lee said she wanted “to do something that was not focused on (her) but focused on something else that could help the world.” Lee’s desire to help the women and be involved in the fashion industry sparked the planning and execution of one of Nomi Network’s most successful home parties, generating more than $1,000 in product sales, and more importantly, bringing awareness to the issue of human trafficking to her network in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Lee definitely knows how to throw a party. Instead of planning the event at her home, Lee held her Nomi Network party at a retail storefront in downtown Raleigh, Epona and Oak, owned by three sisters who are all friends with Lee. The party was held after store-hours so that it would not interfere with the normal business day and was not just open for anyone coming through, although 400 people were invited via Facebook and the store’s website blog. Lee also sent out personal emails to her book club and her close friends in hopes that they would come. 40 people RSVPed to the Facebook page, and 45 people came to Lee’s party.

“Facebook has revolutionized how we are getting the word out about things. I know much more about events in the community than ever before. … I have a good group of friends and between my friends and the women who own the store, other people were invited that I didn’t know. It was a better to invite people to a store than hosting in my home, where maybe at most 20 people would come. I was thinking about what ways to do it where there were as many people as possible to be invited. A public venue also encouraged people. No one who didn’t know me would come in to my home, but others who didn’t know me now would feel welcome to come to a party I was hosting at a storefront,” says Lee.

Lee wanted to make this party special and centered the theme around Cambodian culture. Lee laid out an array of Cambodian treats for her guests: summer rolls, peanut butter cookies sprinkled with cinnamon, a sweet rice treat that she homemade and lemon grass tea. She also asked her friend to help DJ her party. Lee found late 1960s and early 1970s CDs of Cambodian rock to play in the background. Lee explains, “the music was from such a huge time period because it was right before the Khmer Rouge stifled the artistic progress that was being made.” She hoped to expose her guests to something new, and in the process celebrate the reviving culture and talent that was showcased in Nomi Network’s products made by survivors and women at-risk.

Lee’s party started at 7 in the evening and ended at 9:30 pm. To encourage her guests to stay through the event, Lee held a drawing at 9:15 pm for an item that she purchased. She wanted the vibe to feel casual and did not schedule anything else but the raffle to close the night. A donation jar was also placed where people came in for cash donations, and the storeowners helped take credit card donations at the register. The Nomi Network video played throughout the evening on a laptop that was placed on a stand by the Buy Her Bag Not Her Body® product table.

Lee says she ultimately wanted “people to do their own exploration… There were a lot of people who wanted to just talk about the issue of human trafficking. It stirred a lot of conversations.”

“I think the fact that we were all coming together and having a fun time and it was for a good cause made it more fun. It was a fun party - meeting new people, good food, good drinks. They have amazing scents in the store and it was a wonderfully aromatic experience and a good space for a party. People knew you could have fun and help someone else and help the world in a small way. We’re not making huge changes, but anything we can do can help these women,” says Lee.

Lee’s party helped generate over $1,000 that will be directly invested back into training and education for the women at Nomi Network’s partner facilities. Lee selected a limited amount of Buy Her Bag Not Her Body® products to be displayed in the store for sale, but also blew up pictures of other products in a binder so her guests could place orders at the event. Three of Nomi Network’s patch wristlets were sold that evening because her guests saw the pictures in the binder.

“What’s great about Nomi asking people to throw a home party is that it allows people to get involved and be a part of the process. Knowing that you are a part of the process of the women’s rehabilitation is really inspiring. Asking people to do home parties is exciting because it’s not just sending a check. Helping to market the products created by the women, helps the women. I think the fact that when you are purchasing a Nomi Network product you are supporting the women 100%- supporting their jobs and wages and the ability to expand the program is inspiring,” says Lee.

Lee hopes to throw another Nomi Network home party in the future. For those who are considering throwing a party, Lee’s advice is: “Collaborate with a group. Have a group put something together. The more people that feel they’re involved, it helps generate buzz about the event. But get the most people involved without over-extending. I was the organizer and there were people who were willing to help out in any way, like my DJ friend who was willing to bring his equipment that night. It was a good group effort. Or, do it for a birthday. It encourages people to be there. They want to celebrate you. Doing it for a birthday is a great thing when you don’t want gifts but you want people to purchase something in honor of your birthday. It’s also a great way to give gifts for the holidays.”

If you would like to host a Nomi Network home party and help your friends and family purchase holiday gifts, contact Supei Liu at supei@nominetwork.org. You and your guests will receive 20% off all Nomi products! Plus, the host earns Nomi credit for every product sold, which can then be used towards purchasing Nomi Network merchandise. Nomi Network will send your choice of Nomi products along with our Home Party kit, which includes our informational DVD, a set of instructions and a product price sheet. To view Nomi Network’s products, visit www.buyerherbadnotherbody.com.

- Lisa Kim

Nomi Network at Union Square's Holiday Market

2011-10-31T19:32:00.001-07:00

Snow whips through the air in one of the earliest snowstorms recorded in New York City. Slush and grime are quickly become staples on our daily commutes. Yet, approaching brightly on the horizon is Union Square’s Holiday Market. From November 18 - December 24, the market hosts several businesses every year to promote art, hand-made jewelry, toys, beautiful ornaments and the spirit of giving and hope. Shoppers can explore the market and pick out their favorite items to purchase and take home to their friends and families.

This year, Nomi Network is proud to present products that are sure to win shopper’s hearts with a booth at the market! Nomi’s vision fits directly into Union Square Market’s sense of community. Supei Liu, Co-Founder and VP of Commerce relates:

"Every day we make purchases that impact others. You may never see most of those faces but you might have heard some of their stories. Nomi Network is at Union Square as a voice for the women we serve. These women have overcome abuse and despair, but choose to turn their tears into hope. Nomi Network provides training and job opportunities to help these women turn their dark past into a brighter future. By purchasing our products, you are not just supporting a cause, but you are giving these women an opportunity to start a dignified life, bringing hope to their children and creating change in their community."

Naturally, Nomi inspires a way to communicate the holiday desire to give to others. All of their wonderful pieces would make great gifts. Bright wallets, beautiful bags, colorful laptop covers are obvious choices for a present that will mean a lot not only to the receiver, but to the women who are part of Nomi Network.

Conveniently located in the heart of Union Square, the market is an easy stop off the subway and close to many other shops and restaurants. The thought of blissfully sipping hot chocolate while browsing for a bag designed and produced by the women at Nomi Network is worth waiting through the premature snow and cold weather!

This is a perfect opportunity for bargain hunters and those excited to partake in a New York tradition. Well loved and cherished as a must see, this year’s Union Square Market should be on your list of adventures this winter. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

- Nadine Carole

Nomi Network’s Fashion Corner: T-Shirt Love

2011-10-31T19:26:00.000-07:00

As responsible consumers, we have to the question where our goods come from and who makes them. Often we may not be aware that many of the items we use daily are made by slaves or through forced labor practices. Nomi Network understands the integral role fashion plays in seeking sustainable solutions to end human trafficking. That’s why we love seeing the high-end global retailer, All Saints Spitalfields, joining the movement to end slavery. Partnering with Not For Sale, a fellow anti-trafficking non-profit, All Saints launched a capsule T-shirt collection during this year’s London Fashion Week.

Similar to Nomi Network’s mission, Not For Sale and All Saints aim to put an end to human trafficking, and with this effort focuses on forced labor. All Saints is promoting Not For Sale’s vision by working directly with factory owners and workers who produce these shirts, educating them about human trafficking and sharing in a dialogue with them about the importance of what they are doing.

Through this collaboration All Saints demonstrates the power of sending a message through fashion. Proceeds from the line will benefit Not For Sale’s efforts to end human trafficking around the globe and the collection will be sold online and in their retail stores.We are hopeful that this unique collaboration will spur on global efforts to infuse social activism into the fashion industry inspiring us all to find creative outlets to strengthen the movement to end slavery.

http://www.us.allsaints.com/not_for_sale/

Sachiko Pettit

The Give Blog and The Joy of Giving

2011-10-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

You only get to keep what you give away.

In an October post, The Give Blog featured Nomi Network’s work in Cambodia to empower women at-risk of trafficking, teaching them marketable skills and providing them with steady employment. In the post titled “On The Ground: Nomi Network,” The Give Blog focused on Nomi Network’s mission to empower at-risk women with financial independence.

The Give Blog seeks to motivate their audience to give more to worthy charitable causes. The authors write about how we can consciously live our lives in a way that will enable us to give more. Through researching and writing about conscious living, innovative charities, and pressing social issues, The Give Blog encourages its readers to realize that the greatest fulfillment in life comes from giving and helping those in need.

Nomi Network was curious to know what other blogs or organizations were also focused on the importance of giving and we found the following:

http://www.thegiveblog.com/give/

http://www.everydaygivingblog.com/

http://www.whatgives.com/

http://www.charitablegiftgiving.com/

Together we can all give a little more.

- Sachiko Pettit

Nomi Network's Project Beauty: A Different Kind of Photo Shoot

2011-09-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

This past August, nine Nomi Network team members had the privilege of venturing off to Cambodia to visit our partner facilities and to strengthen our work there. The group leveraged its own network of family and friends to raise funding for the trip. During our second Project Beauty photo shoot, we lavished the women who create our products with makeovers and new clothes. With the help of five volunteer photographers, we returned with priceless snapshots of women whose lives are being restored and whose smiles have continued to inspire us even upon returning home to the United States.

Project Beauty initially began as a spontaneous photo shoot, where Supei Liu, Nomi’s Lead Product Developer VP of Commerce, desired to give the women a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including the importance of seasonal look books and product photo shoots when generating sales opportunities. Throughout the initial photo shoot, the women involved gained knowledge of artful product photography as well as personal confidence. The first shoot involved four women, all of whom volunteered to model the products that they had helped sew or produce. Inspired by an interest in learning more about the fashion industry, they became aware of their position to help their own social enterprise gain exposure. When we presented them each with copies of their photographs, we saw and heard them express their excitement and delight, and the full potential of this photo shoot becoming a treasured experience was realized. It had boosted their confidence and made them feel beautiful and special, and we wanted to give them so much more than that; beyond feeling pampered for a day, we wanted to unlock their potential on every level, demonstrating that they could try something new with confidence. We wanted them to know that they are worthy of affection, encouragement and the even the spotlight.

Project Beauty is now one Nomi’s formal initiatives, where we provide participating women with new clothes, hairdos and makeovers as well as a time of laughter, learning, and building safe and supportive relationships with Nomi team members. Our project gives participants a chance to feel beautiful from the inside and out. This summer we completed our second Project Beauty photo shoot, using various locations both indoors and outdoors and increasing the number of women involved. Some “veterans” returned fierce and ready for the camera while new participants giggled shyly as their pictures were being taken. Each woman kept the clothes that they modeled and were given other items donated by Nomi Network supporters and clothing companies in the United States.

We worked together effectively and efficiently as a team and executed the entire photo shoot in only two and a half hours. We were amazed that after only a couple of hours together, laughing, walking hand in hand and chatting with the women, we felt as though all of our friendships had been significantly deepened and strengthened. These memorable images of the women holding our Buy Her Bag Not Her Body® products will be celebrated in our next product Look Book.

Nomi Network is proud to develop and distribute products that help support the livelihood and future of these beautiful women – our dear friends.

- Lisa Kim & Alissa Moore

Nomi Network's Fashion Corner: Fashion in 2025

2011-09-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

While the fashion world is always anticipating the next season, having one eye on the future seems to be the mantra of all those who truly champion the sustainable fashion movement. While researching educational institutions that teach about both fashion and sustainability we were impressed by the vision of the projects and initiatives found on The Center for Sustainable Fashion, London School of Fashion. In their project, Fashion Futures 2025, the Centered partnering with the Forum for the Future to create four animated video concepts on what the world of fashion might look like in 2025.

Designed as a tool to cause companies’ to strategize and rethink opportunities to plan ahead, these collage-like videos hold a somewhat grim reminder that everything we do today creates a ripple effect that impacts the future – even those things we do in the name of fashion.

The four videos are linked below:

- Alissa A. Moore

Spotlight on Nomi Network Fashion Designer, Lindsay Boswell

2011-09-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

There is a vast pipeline of talented young professionals who are drawn to non-profit and cause-based organizations. For this generation of abolitionists, a six-figure salary from Wall Street is just not as fulfilling as making a positive impact on the world. Lindsay Boswell, a fashion designer for a major retailer and Nomi Network volunteer, is passionate about devoting her time and talent to designing products made by survivors and women at-risk of human trafficking. She is one of Nomi Network’s original New York City designers. Lindsay looks forward to meeting Nomi, our organization’s namesake, on the team’s next trip to Cambodia. Lindsay says that the first thing she will do upon arrival will be to give Nomi a big hug.

What brought you to NYC?
It has always been my dream to live and work in NYC. Fortunately, I was accepted to FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in 2006 and moved here to pursue my degree in Fashion Design. It's been almost six years now and I can't imagine leaving!

How did you hear about Nomi Network?
I was taking a couple handbag design classes during school and became very interested in accessory design. Coincidentally, I was also taking a World Affairs course that brought my attention to the issue of sex trafficking. I was speaking to one of my good friends who was familiar with the issue and, knowing my interest in handbag design, suggested that I meet the founders of Nomi Network.

What inspires your design? What inspires you in general?
I can't really pinpoint what inspires me, but the artist, Ruben Toledo, once said to "always have your antenna up." I think that is they best way to describe what inspires me. When you constantly tune into your surroundings, current events and experiences - they all intersect to create ideas. The idea with the greatest frequency wins. I think that's the "aha!" moment. I am probably most often tuned into art, though, and the interaction of colors and shapes. I could easily spend an entire day at a good museum.

What is your favorite Nomi product and why?
I really love the quilted cosmetic case. Cosmetic cases are the perfect item for our bright palette and I love the color-blocking technique we used in this piece with the contrasting zipper and tassel. Plus, the size is great because it is easy to throw in your purse. It perfectly fits all the essentials! The zip wallet is also another favorite of mine!

Why are you passionate about fashion and Nomi Network?
I love fashion because it is an artistic expression and can have a positive effect on the person wearing it. I know that fashion alone cannot make someone happy, but it can contribute! I love creating pieces that enhance someone's life in both a utilitarian and aesthetic way. To me, that is good design and I love the challenge. I am so passionate about Nomi Network because it allows design to be used for the greater good. Each time someone purchases a Nomi Network product, they are helping to spread awareness and empower women. The more you wear these products, the more you share the brand Buy Her Bag Not Her Body®, and the more you become a part of the solution.

- Diana Mao

Launch Party for the New See Jane Charm

2011-09-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

Nomi Network Cocktail and Awards Host Committee Member and actor Geena Davis founded the non-profit, See Jane in 2004 upon discovering the disparities and stereotypes between men and women in the entertainment industry. Aimed at educating and empowering children under 11 years old, the research-based institution advocates for gender equality in the portrayals of men and women in the media.

On October 6th See Jane will launch the sale of a philanthropic charm in partnership with Altruette. Geena Davis & Fred Segal cordially invite all fashionistas and abolitionists to join the launch party at Zero Minus Plus (500 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA) from 7:00-9:00 pm. 50% of the proceeds from each charm will go to the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media and will help promote healthy images of women and girls. For up-to-date info on the new charm and additional information on Altruette visit www.altruette.com.

- Lisa Kim

Team Nomi Network in Action in Cambodia

2011-08-31T15:02:00.000-07:00

Three decades after the Khmer Rouge set its destructive course of mass torture and genocide, there stands a new generation that will lead Cambodia out of its dark past. Currently, 80% of Cambodia’s population is under 30 years old. After visiting shelters and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), dining at local eateries and conversing with local tuk tuk drivers, we found a people and culture ready and willing to learn from the past and build a better future.

One of our favorite moments was spending time with Nomi, the little girl who inspired our organization’s creation. Hearing Nomi’s familiar voice say, “I love you, sister,” as she embraced us again was a treasured experience. Nomi converses in English and attends special education classes during the day for her other course work. During our visit we saw her helping two younger girls learn the English alphabet by tracing letters in a workbook. Seeing how Nomi has continued to be transformed by the love of those around her fuels our desire to continue our work in Cambodia.

After conducting art classes and spending time at the shelter where Nomi lives, we realized how adept these young girls are in learning new skills. While working on different art projects several of the girls brought their own aesthetics and creative ideas to the table, creating variations of the project and allowing each of their final products to be unique. Throughout our visit the girls warmed to our presence, and invited us to participate in their games and activities. They also took a particular interest in the gadgets we carried with us, particularly our cell phones which we were using primarily to tell time. We were all amazed when we caught one of the youngest girls at the shelter, approximately 3 year old, effortlessly scrolling and dragging items on the screen of a Droid X belonging to one of our teammates. No matter where one is growing up these days, exposure to the information age is clearly having an impact, and we were excited to note that many of the girls at this particular shelter are taking computer classes to round out their education.

Over the two weeks we were in Cambodia, our team had the privilege of going deeper with 15 survivors and women at-risk of trafficking. These beautiful young women shared about their daily lives, their current endeavors, and their hopes and dreams for the future. By understanding their stories and their aspirations, we are re-shaping our career development and training programs so that we can help them attain their goals. These stories of hope will ultimately lay the foundation for our next phase of development inspiring our 2011 Cocktail and Awards Ceremony on October 12.

Our trip also shed light on how we can strengthen our existing efforts to provide sustainable income and help channel more resources directly into local communities. A few years ago, the Cambodian markets were monotonous - with vendors selling the same trinkets or purses to scrounge for a living. Their markets are slowly improving and diversifying. Local shelters and artisans are elevating the quality and design of products by incorporating other techniques like silk-screening prints directly on recycled materials and quilting fabrics to create sturdier and more appealing products. Though the skill level of survivors and women at-risk is increasing, there is still a gap between their current abilities and the job-skills required to qualify them for sustainable employment in larger facilities.

At the end of this year, Nomi Network will launch a training program and design competition that will showcase a winning designer affiliate with a local NGO. The driving force behind this Cambodian “fashion meets social media” campaign will be the training program that will teach participants various techniques, fashion trends and give them greater access to the global marketplace. Approximately 20 NGOs sent representatives to Phnom Penh to attend Nomi Network’s information session and have expressed interest in participating in the program. We are excited to work with this talented pool of participants and help connect a global audience to their designs and products.

Nomi Network bridges the gap between the local NGOs and the marketplace, and endeavors to prepare vulnerable women for the job-market. After meeting with the owners and managers of several larger sustainable businesses in Cambodia, these potential employers have asked us to help assess and train up a workforce. In addition, our current partner organizations are trying to build agricultural and other local industries and they need buyers and distribution channels for these goods. In the following years, Nomi Network hopes to help our partners establish a consistent consumer base, modeling the power of investing these funds into education initiatives and further training for the women and children we all aim to support. Our team was collectively energized by the connections that we made, the relationships that we strengthened, and the individual stories that we heard. Our commitment to Cambodia, and our beautiful friends and colleagues there, permeates our work and spurs us forward.

- Lisa Kim

Nomi Network Fashion Corner: Organic by John Patrick

2011-08-31T14:04:00.001-07:00

While scrambling to do all the appropriate research for NY Fall Fashion Week, we've become quite enamored with this year's 2011 fashion collection by sustainable designer John Patrick. Earth tones, layered with distinct textures, is a common theme, as are knit sweaters, sheer dresses and laced boots. His "granola" take on business-casual creates an autumn collection that will make most tree-huggers happy, especially after they learn about Patrick's commitment to building his garments locally, from the raw materials he uses to his final products. Check out his fall collection on his website.

Known for his label, Organic by John Patrick, Mr. Patrick was also recently featured in The New York Times Style Magazine for his endeavors as an "organic" painter. He had been painting for years, dabbling mainly in China ink, but after being invited to submit his work to an organic art show and simultaneously finding several inspiring organic paint pigments at a novelty art store in Saratoga Springs, he agreed to put his work on display.

As an aspiring designer and a graduate of Skidmore College located in Saratoga Springs, it brings me great satisfaction to know that both Mr. Patrick and myself have shopped for art supplies as well as inspiration at the same local art stores. While my art pieces were completed for course work on campus, Patrick's was entered into the show “Leaf // Cloud” this past June at Fair Folks & a Goat, 7 E. 88th St., #0006. We thought this blog post on Inhabitat New York City was a particularly good review of the show.

- Alissa A. Moore

Interview with Siddharth Kara, Special to CNN, Part 2

2011-08-31T13:53:00.000-07:00

Siddharth Kara is the first Fellow on Human Trafficking at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and the author of the book, Sex Trafficking: Inside the Business of Modern Slavery. He is also on the advisory board of Nomi Network.

This is part 2 of the interview that was published on August 25, 2010, Nomi Network Advisor on CNN. The interview was conducted on July 1, 2010, just prior to his departure to South Asia to begin field research for his next book, on bonded labor, which is now complete and to be published soon.

You had suggested that there is a fine line in defining what labor trafficking and slavery are, and that it could be as simple as somebody not receiving fair wages all the way to another extreme. Do you feel like you have adequately put some definitions in your work that do a better job at defining categories of slavery, or is that something that you wish to do further?

That’s a really good question. I think I’ve started to do that work, but in my next book or a couple of papers that I am working on, I am really going to take that definition question much further… The line between forced labor and labor exploitation of some extreme kind is very gray. There is a line there obviously, there has to be, but it’s grayer than people treat it. The more you see, the more you see that it is more complex, and even in my own mind, my thinking has evolved across the years. Definitely, in terms of what it is, what it is not, and how many are there--that work I’m going to really advance in my next book.

In your book, you estimated that for the end of 2006, there were 28.4 million slaves in the world. What methodology did you use to come up with that number?

Across ten years I’ve built up a model. It’s a mix of what’s called capture-recapture methodology, plus random statistical sampling. From there, I extrapolate in a way that is defensible and conservative because you can’t identify and quantify every such individual in the world. I take statistical samples in certain ways and that extrapolate in ways that are statistically defensible. So, to summarize: I use random sampling, capture- recapture methodology, followed by extrapolation. My estimate was as of the end-of-year 2006.

Now I look back and my own thinking has evolved. Four years back, it was the best I could come up with. The next time around I will be publishing a confidence interval, which will provide a range of numbers. That means that with a certain level of confidence, usually 95 or 99%, I can say that the number of “blank” in the world is between A and B.

I’ll be doing that next time and from now on. Otherwise, one does an injustice to the gray areas that have been becoming more and more evident to me. We need try and pin-point the things in those gray areas. My end-of-year 2006 estimate was the mean of a confidence interval. But I didn’t get into that in the book. There were already so many charts and graphs in the book. But later I realized that I hadn’t done full justice to my own work or to the complexities of things. I’m going to do that next time, in the bonded labor book, and there will be fewer charts and graphs. It will provide a range and it will include growth rates by category.

The numbers by category are so important. They are not just slaves. There are different kinds. And I have three categories. Others may have a different number of categories. What is in each category, how much, what they contribute to the global economy, what are the various growth rates? All of these things are so important to get a grasp on rather than just use a blanket statement that there are this many slaves in the world and that there have been that many for ten years and that’s that.

Do the three categories correspond with the three books you are writing?

Yes, roughly: bonded labor, forced labor and trafficked slaves. Trafficked slaves are individuals that have been trafficked into a situation of bonded or forced labor, so in a sense there are two categories.

But this new, post- World War phenomenon of a rapid increase in slave trading is worth carving out and running some numbers separately, because it is such a fast growing phenomena as compared to bonded labor which grows at a much slower pace. But there are so many more bonded laborers than any others.

Are you defining slavery by the way the person is being held as not the purpose they are being held for?

No, because one person could be exploited in several ways. Then you double count them. You could have a bonded laborer that works in agriculture, brick making, and carpet weaving, at different times. In fact, I’ve met some. So we can’t say that we have carpet slaves, brick slaves, and agricultural slaves. That seems to miss the boat.

That’s so helpful. For such a long time, I’ve been trying to define slavery by the types, the purpose, for an actual slave, instead of the way in which they are being held.

I think the more effective way to define it is by modality or industry. Any single individual at any given time can be exploited in several different industries. Again, these are people I’ve met. A child slave later becomes a victim of sex trafficking, who then later becomes a victim of forced labor in domestic work. That isn’t three slaves. It is one slave--one forced laborer, who at various points in time inhabited different categories of enslavement with different business models and economics. Each category of enslavement differs in its vulnerabilities and how they work. Each category requires different laws, tactics, and policies.

- Alissa Moore and Stephen M. Bauer

Fighting the Demand Side: US Demand for Trafficking Fuels Trafficking From Mexico

2011-08-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

Nomi Network Board Member and Global Centurion President, Dr. Laura Lederer, was recently quoted in this press release regarding the issue of US demand fueling trafficking from Mexico. The Global Centurion Foundation is the leading international organization focused on fighting sex trafficking by focusing on demand. Men who buy sex fuel the market for commercial sex. Today’s brothels often trade in women and children who have been trafficked into prostitution. Global Centurion assists communities, states, and governments in developing a comprehensive demand reduction strategy. Nomi Network seeks to bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking globally, which includes taking a long, hard look at how this trade manifests within our own boarders.

Global Centurion Press Release: Mass arrests of traffickers in Mexican human trafficking raids – U.S. men fuel the trade in women

"More than 1,000 people were arrested last week by Mexican police in a crackdown on human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Ciudad Juarez, a town just across the southern border of the U.S. Mexican police rescued dozens of women and at least 20 children who had been trafficked into prostitution.

Analysts say that much of the violence in Mexico, particularly in the north, is linked to the trade in drugs and humans. What is left unexamined is what fuels this trade in young females for sex. According to Laura Lederer, President of Global Centurion, an anti-trafficking organization in Washington DC, ‘men frequenting brothels and cruising the streets for commercial sex are a key factor in the booming sex trafficking business.’ Lederer says women and children are trafficked from Mexico and Central America into back-alley brothels in the United States. In addition, she says, ‘Men from the U.S. also cross the border into Mexico seeking sex from women and children who have been trafficked into prostitution and are being held against their will. This business knows no national borders.’

American men need to understand who runs the sex trade. ‘The people who traffic women and children into prostitution are violent criminals, often connected to other criminal syndicates and networks’ says Lederer. Ciudad Juarez is one of the most violent places in Mexico. More than 3,000 murders were committed in 2010 alone, making it the country's deadliest city.

To address this serious problem, Mexico must pass a new human trafficking law that addresses the triangle of activity involved in trafficking: supply, demand, and distribution. ‘Too often, the laws only prohibit human trafficking. This is a start, because it gives law enforcement the tools to arrest and charge traffickers, but it does not address either supply (the women and children being sold) or demand (the men buying). A comprehensive law will address the entire triangle of activity,’ according to Lederer. ‘It will have a victim-centered approach for women and children who are trafficked AND it will target both traffickers and buyers – the men who purchase sex and fuel this illegal market. Over time, vigorous enforcement of such a tri-partite law will effectively eradicate the scourge of human trafficking.’"

- intro by Alissa Moore; press release by Dr. Laura Lederer

Can the Healthy Media for Youth Act Change Gender Stereotypes and Women Employment?

2011-08-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

Geena Davis, Oscar-winning actress and founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media, has been recently spotlighted as she works with US Senator Kay Hagan and US Representative Tammy Baldwin to promote how women are portrayed in the media. The trio introduced the The Healthy Media for Youth Act on Wednesday, a new bill that would seek to support media literacy programs, encourage youth empowerment groups and generate research on how depictions of women and girls in the media affect youth. In addition, it would create a National Taskforce of Women and Girls in the Media, a group dedicated to developing standards for healthy, balanced and positive images of women and girls in the media.

Photo from Left to Right: Alissa Moore, Co-founder of Nomi Network, Geena Davis, Founder of Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media at the BCLC/UN’s Investing in Women and Entrepreneurship Conference

As co-chair of the Healthy Media Commission for Positive Images of Women and Girls, Davis is working alongside more than 30 media and women's organizations to improve images of women in the film industry. She is the founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, working to fund and compile research on gender in children's entertainment and the impact it has on societal stereotypes and gender roles. As women and girls learn that they do not have to fit into these specified roles, their vision for future career paths and personal development is expanded. It is particularly important, when considering those who have been exploited, to provide opportunities to see women, in a non-objectified way, with multiple opportunities for sustainable careers that do not involve physical or mental abuse. We believe that with the collective passion for the cause and the Commission's continued efforts, there will be lasting, positive change.

- Amanda Lassiter