Deportations, wage cuts, and exploitation
| From Ellie Finkelstein, Freedom United |
| October 12th, 2025 News Digest |
| OUR CAMPAIGN ISSUES IN THE NEWS |
This week’s US-focused edition reflects domestic policy shifts that weaken anti-trafficking protections—with consequences that echo globally.
| Law & policy Deportations up, wages down: the policy driving modern slavery in US farming A new US rule cuts wages and requires farm workers on temporary agricultural visas to pay for housing, increasing exploitation. These policies not only abuse migrant laborers but also push domestic farm workers out of the industry, creating a cycle of labor shortages and further entrenching exploitation in agriculture. |
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| Forced marriage UNMUTED: CHILD BRIDES film screening inspires lively discussion and action Ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, UNA-NY and Freedom United screened UNMUTED: CHILD BRIDES, highlighting forced child marriage in the US and India, followed by a panel discussion that explored its causes, impacts, and solutions, inspiring awareness and action. Show more… |
| Take action |
| Forced labor When “good” food hides forced labor A new study reveals that even healthy US diets can carry a hidden cost: forced labor. Analysing over 200 foods, researchers traced risks of forced labor across various food supply chains—from fruit farms and nut plantations to slaughterhouses and fishing vessels. Show more… |
| Take action |
| Speak free Government report release reveals serious perils for America’s anti-trafficking efforts |
| Show more |
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 | Ellie Finkelstein Freedom United |
