For many years Lati* was exploited through bonded labor. Also known as debt bondage and peonage, bonded labor happens when people enter into employment as security against a loan or when they inherit a debt from a relative. Once the agreement is made, they are forced to work in brutal conditions – only to find that repayment of the loan is impossible. Then, their enslavement becomes permanent.
Lati was part of a bonded labor rescue intervention in 2020 conducted by JVI and local partners. At the time of the rescue, she was in bad shape. She had lost all sense of self worth, making social reintegration feel overwhelming. JVI connected Lati with professional counseling, provided financial advice, and helped her to receive access to various government rehabilitation benefits through which she received approximately $800.
Lati’s first step towards building a new life was to invest wisely. During her rehabilitation, she learned the importance of education and set aside money for her children to attend school. To provide for her family, Lati leased 1.5 acres of land to harvest a variety of crops.
In just two years, Lati has transformed her life! She now earns enough money from crops to provide for her family and send her children to school. She saved enough profit to purchase the land she was leasing.
Lati now has her sight set on the local elections in her village. As a prominent member of society with a proven track record, she stands a very good chance of garnering enough votes to tip the scales in her favor. She has become passionate about advocating for human rights and spreads awareness on human trafficking in her village.
*name changed to protect confidentiality
(202) 455-0812
contact@justiceventures.org
P.O. Box 2834
Washington, DC 20013-2834
