For over 25 years, IJM’s mission has been to protect vulnerable people from violence and create a safe future that lasts.
This is just a glimpse of the tangible impact made possible by courageous people like you who are committed to making the world safer for our most vulnerable communities.
As billions turn their attention to the World Cup, International Justice Mission (IJM) is launching “Freedom to Play,” a global movement bringing together hundreds of professional athletes and fans to help protect children from modern slavery and restore their freedom to play. Featuring two-time Women’s World Cup champion Julie Ertz, U.S. Men’s National Team and Crystal Palace F.C. defender Chris Richards, U.S. Men’s National Team and Nottingham Forest F.C. goalkeeper Matt Turner, the initiative spotlights a largely unseen reality – an estimated 50 million people trapped in modern slavery worldwide – and invites everyone to be part of the solution.
“Freedom to Play” amplifies a simple but powerful tension: while the World Cup brings people together to celebrate the freedom, joy and possibility experienced through sport, millions of women and children around the world are denied that freedom through violence, exploitation and abuse. Now is the time to turn global attention into meaningful action and restore that fundamental right. Athletes understand firsthand the role that sport plays in childhood, confidence and community, making them powerful advocates for children who have been denied the freedom to simply be kids.
“Soccer gave me so much growing up – confidence, community, and the freedom to just be a kid, and now as a mom, I see that same joy in my children every day,” said Julie Ertz. “I’m proud to join ‘Freedom to Play’ to help protect children and ensure they can grow up safe, free and able to play.”
“An estimated 50 million people are trapped in modern slavery today – more than eight times the expected World Cup attendance,” said Jaclynn Willert, Senior Officer and Founder of IJM’s Team Freedom. “The same global moment that will bring millions together for sport could also mobilize a generation to help protect children from exploitation. That’s our hope: that this World Cup can help build a future where all are free, and we’re deeply grateful to every athlete taking part, and every fan who chooses to take action.”
To join IJM in the work of justice and help restore the freedom every child deserves:
- Learn more at IJM.org/freedomtoplay
- Follow IJM on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
- Share “Freedom to Play” content on social media
This World Cup, IJM invites fans around the world to turn their passion for the game into action to protect children and restore their freedom to play.
You are part of a global community united by a common vision for justice. Together, we have actively made the world a safer place.
10,795,165 people have been sustainably protected from the ongoing threat of everyday violence.
And that number grows more and more every day.To find out how you can partner with IJM, please contact our team today.