7 Artisan-Made Products that Empower Survivors of Human Trafficking

Monday, July 30th is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - a cause that is dear to our hearts. 

Around the world and in the U.S., millions of women, children, and men are coerced, forced, or falsely led into forced labor, sexual exploitation, bondage, or servitude. These victims of modern slavery are stripped of their basic freedoms and outcast from loved ones and society. Those who are rescued, or are able to escape, still face many challenges to reaching independence. Without an education or career skills, perhaps the greatest challenge is finding dignified employment to support themselves and their families. 

One way you can help is by purchasing products made by survivors. There are many incredible enterprises that provide job training, gainful employment opportunities, and community support to survivors as they rebuild their lives. We especially love handmade products because they are a celebration of each artisan's skills and creativity. Shop these inspiring brands to help restore freedom and independence for exploited women around the world. 

1. The Little Market

The collection of exfoliating sugar scrubs from The Little Market is the latest initiative by the non-profit fair trade shop to give back, supporting survivors of human trafficking with these handmade products in Los Angeles, CA. The all-natural sugar scrub collection allows makers to earn fair wages and build strong futures in an empowering work environment. We love the range of scents featuring everything from refreshing to comforting! 

2. Purpose Jewelry

Purpose Jewelry provides young women, who are escaping human trafficking, an opportunity to earn a living wage and become self-sufficient through jewelry-making. Purpose Jewelry reinvests 100% of their revenue into International Sanctuary, their non-profit providing much-needed job training and holistic care for survivors, including education, medical care, and counseling. We love their newly released Ankole Horn collection, handcrafted by women in Kampala! With every artisan piece, survivors gain a renewed sense of independence, strength, and dignity. 

3. Mulxiply

Inspired by the beauty and culture of Nepal, Mulxiply partners with artisan groups in the country to create a range of handcrafted clothing, jewelry, and accessories. After witnessing the reality of human trafficking, Mulxiply was founded to provide opportunities for women and other marginalized groups to become self-dependent. We love the hand-felted gifts, which provide dignified work opportunities particularly for women, with a majority-women team of artisans.

4. Malia Designs 

Malia Designs honors the people and culture of Cambodia, created to increase economic opportunity for women in Cambodia and to support organizations that fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia. They partner with artisan groups, many of which are women-led, to create fair trade bags, masks, canvas planters, and more. With every beautifully handcrafted item sold, Malia Designs works to break the cycle of poverty by providing a sustainable source of income to their artisan partners. Over the years, they have provided grants and loans to artisan groups and donated over $160,000 to organizations in Cambodia and the U.S. that fight human trafficking.

5. Elegantees

This timeless collection of dresses, skirts, tees, and girl's apparel empowers women in Nepal who are rescued from sex trafficking to reach economic independence. Elegantees offers survivors valuable career skills and a sustainable income to support their families and begin anew. Each handcrafted piece is beautifully-designed and reflects the detail and skill of its artisan maker. Check out their Nora dresses for some classic elegance this summer!

6. Starfish Project  

These whimsical earrings and necklaces restore hope to exploited women in Asia who are building a brighter future for themselves and their families. Working with over 130 women, Starfish Project provides survivors with valuable tools and skills to establish their independence and launch into meaningful careers. Every Starfish Project purchase helps restore hope and supports survivors with heathcare, shelter, counseling, and education grants.

7. Trades of Hope

Through living wages and holistic care, Trades of Hope empowers survivors in Asia, Haiti, Pakistan, and the U.S. to escape poverty and support their families with a renewed sense of value and purpose. Their impressive collection of handmade jewelry, handbags, and home accessories are crafted with attention and detail. We are inspired by their teardrop-shaped Aspire earring set, handmade by women who are being rescued from brothels in Asia and rehabilitated. 

Every purchase we make has the power to make a positive impact on people around the world. We know this list is only the beginning... there are so many more social enterprises out there fighting to end human trafficking. 

Which survivor-made product or brand inspires you to give back? Let us know in the comments below!

Top blog image from Purpose Jewelry.

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