Change WILL happen: Highlights from the Human and Civil Rights for Marginalized Communities Initiative meeting at the Freedom Café

Human Rights Leaders from Countries Across Central Africa

On May 3rd, as a part of a Human and Civil Rights for Marginalized Communities Initiative and through a collaboration with the US Dept of State and World Affairs Council of NH, the Freedom Café hosted a meeting with 17 human rights leaders from countries across central Africa who were visiting the US.

These human rights activists from Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, South Africa, and South Sudan came together to discuss best practices for preventing and addressing violations against marginalized communities, document abuses, and advocate for the rule of law. The conversation centered around human trafficking, supply chain policy, and public education campaigns to bring awareness to these issues. 

The first-hand knowledge and experiences of our guests really brought home the urgency of our mission. For example, Mr. Bleou, Director, Legal Affairs, Ministry of Technical Education and Vocational Training in Cote d’Ivoire shared how the country is working to address child labor in the Chocolate industry. 

While they have seen progress—bringing the estimated number of children in exploitive labor from 800 thousand to 600 thousand over the last 5 years—the country still needs the commitment, investment, and willingness to pay a fair wage from major global brands like Nestle in order to eradicate child and forced labor. 

How will this change take place? 

While significant business and political willpower is required, ultimately CHANGE WILL HAPPEN when WE as citizen-consumers leave behind our dependance on cheap chocolate and DEMAND IT! 

Following 90 minutes of often intense conversation across 3 languages, the joy and hope of these humble, expert leaders came to light as a dance party broke out in the cafe with guests chanting, “FREE-DOM CAFE”!

Many thanks to @WorldAffairsCouncilofNH for coordinating this program.