Inspired by London-based Anti-Slavery International, U.S. civil rights leaders on historic trip

12.9.17

Inspired by London-based Anti-Slavery International, U.S. civil rights leaders on historic trip: NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania, Sept. 8, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of United States civil rights leaders from diverse backgrounds (listed below) is currently on a historic trip through Mauritania through September 15th to support the courageous efforts of Mauritanians working to eradicate slavery and its legacy in their country. Since 2013, the Chicago-based Abolition Institute which organized the trip has been working with strong guidance and partnership from Africa Programme Manager Sarah Mathewson of Anti-Slavery International in London; the world's oldest international human rights organization.

Mauritania criminalized slavery in 2007 and a wide variety of local advocates and organizations have been working tirelessly to bring freedom to all residents of the West African nation. The first successful prosecutions of Mauritanian slaveholders took place last year and new initiatives to combat race and descent based slavery are providing momentum in the centuries-long effort to eradicate the brutal practice for good.