Marking Anti-Slavery Day across the Clewer network

Hidden Voices Bridgwater has once again paid for an illuminated road sign on the A38 to raise awareness of modern slavery in our communities.  It is also hosting The Hidden Market from 17-19th October in St Mary’s Church, Bridgwater. The Hidden Market is an art exhibition focusing on the hidden slavery in everyday products and services.

Sian Owen of Hidden Voices Bridgwater explains: “Some amazing artists have submitted work this year. There are striking messages contained within the artwork and we can’t wait for people from the surrounding areas to visit and engage with the art. We think it is a powerful way to bring home to people the reality of modern slavery and the way in which slavery can exist in the supply chains of many products and services we readily enjoy.” 

On Sunday 19th October, Bishop Alastair Redfern, the chair of The Clewer Initiative, is attending the communion service at St Mary’s.

Chichester Diocese is partnering with the Chichester Mothers’ Union to raise awareness of modern slavery. The Mothers’ Union is hosting its annual AGM on 18th October and as part of the day, there will be presentations from the police and The Clewer Initiative about modern slavery and human trafficking.  

Finally, Southwark Against Modern Slavery (SAMS) is involved with a number of events in the lead up to Anti-Slavery Day including: 

• Two online, lunchtime training sessions for Tandridge Council and Reigate & Banstead Council employees. Reigate & Banstead Council have also asked SAMS to provide material for a display in their office
• The Diocese of London’s Modern Slavery Awareness Training Conference at St Mellitus College on 15th October
• a special Choral Evensong and reception on 15th October at Southwark Cathedral to mark the end of its Anti-Slavery year.
• a Training Day at Southwark Cathedral on Sat 18th October with presentations from Dr Júlia Tomás (The Passage), DC Iain Ross (Metropolitan Police), Members of Southwark Against Modern Slavery and Bishop Alastair Redfern (Chair of The Clewer Initiative). There will also be informative and inspiring displays from people who have taken action in their communities.  

It is brilliant to hear of so many different ways that Dioceses, Cathedrals and partner organisations are seeking to raise awareness and stir people to action.

It is not too late to organise something in your community for Anti-Slavery Day. For more ideas, go to https://clewer.org.uk/campaigns/anti-slavery-day-make-it-slavery-free