Street Art for Mankind is running the #FreeChildren campaign in support of the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labor, prompting passers-by to take action.
2021 is officially the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour. Over the course of the year, the global anti-child trafficking community aims to redouble efforts to reduce the number of children forced into labor, a figure which currently stands at 125 million. In support of this mission, Street Art for Mankind is partnering with JCDecaux, along with artists, experts, and influencers, to bring awareness to the streets of NYC with the year-long #FreeChildren campaign.
With the goal of spreading their message nationally and internationally, this campaign launched online and on 100 JCDecaux bus shelters across the 5 boroughs on February 8th. Featuring the work of 9 artists and the words of 9 experts all focused on themes of trafficking and related industries, #FreeChildren connects the general public with reality of child trafficking, how it directly affects them and how they can take action.
This impactful campaign is activated with the help of an AR app called “Behind the Wall.” Viewers are directed to download the app, where they can then scan artworks, hear directly from experts, and see action steps. After scanning Worst Nightmare by Adry del Rocio (pictured above), they will hear Cecile Noel, NYC Mayor’s Office ENDGBV Commissioner, describe how the US is ranked as one of the worst countries for human trafficking, and from the artist herself about the inspiration for this piece.
To learn more about this issue and see how you can make a difference, visit Street Art for Mankind’s website.