Breaking the chains of cultural slavery
“I have a very messy past,” Naay began as she shared her story.Naay, whose name I’ve changed to protect her, fled to Bangkok, Thailand, to escape an abusive relationship. But without an education or any job prospects, she soon found herself being abused again — this...
Fight for freedom this Human Rights Day
Someone once wrote of Eleanor Roosevelt: “She would rather light candles than curse the darkness, and her glow has warmed the world.”Could someone say the same about you?As one of the key players in founding Human Rights Day, Eleanor Roosevelt knew that fighting for...
When I grow up, I want to be …
When I was little I wanted to be a veterinarian … in space. I heard a story about a monkey that went to space, and the only thing my young mind could think about was whether or not those poor monkeys had adequate medical care.As I grew up, my interests changed and...
On the ground in Thailand: Freedom is contagious
One of my favorite parts of my visits to Thailand is the time I get to spend at the Freedom Homes. If the bars and red-light districts are full of darkness, then these homes are full of light and joy. It’s here that girls get a chance at a new life. It’s here that...
The source of cultural slavery: On the ground in Thailand
Today we visited a slum near Bangkok. It’s places like these where the cycle of cultural slavery truly begins. In these neighborhoods, there are few jobs and even fewer schools. Entire families have lived in the same shacks for generations. And from the day they are...
Every day, I try to live my life in such a way that I accomplish at least one thing that will outlive me and last for eternity.