To start 2024, the IDEAs Council would like to spotlight World Braille Day and Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
World Braille Day is celebrated annually on January 4 because it’s Louis Braille’s birthday. He was the inventor of the braille language in 1824. At only 15 years old, Louis created a reading and writing system based on Charles Barbier’s forms of shorthand as an alternative means of writing. We know Louis’ system today as braille.
Adjusted over time, braille is now used worldwide. World Braille Day is a reminder of the importance of accessibility and independence for people who are blind or visually impaired. More businesses and establishments need to offer braille to create a more inclusive environment, and World Braille Day is a great way to shine a light on this issue.
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January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month – an important time to reflect on the resilience of trafficking survivors and recognize the efforts of those who work tirelessly to prevent and eliminate this form of abuse and exploitation.
Human trafficking involves exploiting a person for labor or services. It is estimated that 25 million people are subjected to human trafficking and forced labor across the globe. It is considered one of the fastest-growing illegal industries in the world and generates an estimated $150 billion annually.
January was first declared National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in 2010. Since then, January has been a time to acknowledge those experiencing enslavement, champion those who have escaped and take measures to prevent this devastating practice from growing.
Over the coming months, the IDEAs Council has selected some interesting topics for you. We look forward to sharing them, expanding discussions and highlighting our diverse world!
Upcoming Topics:
February – International Epilepsy Day and World Day of Social Justice
March – Equal Pay Day and Greek-American Heritage Month
April – Arab-American Heritage Month and Laylat al-Qadr