SATCoL’s call to action for Anti-Slavery Day

Posted: 29.10.24

October 18th marked Anti-Slavery Day, which represents an essential opportunity to raise awareness about the ongoing fight against modern slavery. The Salvation Army has been an avid supporter of victims of modern slavery and every year we work to raise awareness and shed more light on the topic. Modern Slavery can take many forms, and it can be hard to spot, even though it’s often happening right where we are, but hidden in plain sight. The Salvation Army provide specialist support to protect and care for all adult survivors of modern slavery in England and Wales.

At SATCoL, we stand firmly with victims of exploitation, advocating for their rights and freedom. Recently, our Norwich shop has played a key role in shedding light on this urgent issue.

Volunteer, Jemma Banks, turned heads and hearts with her latest art installation at The Salvation Army’s shop on Lower Goat Street. With a background in portraiture, Jemma has been volunteering at the shop for the past 18 months, during which she has initiated a range of featured displays.

window display showing 5 naked mannequins with written messages on them. SALE signs at the top of the mannequins and SPECIAL OFFER signs at the bottom.

Jemma’s most recent work conveyed the message and portrayal of darker realities relating to modern slavery, utilising the shop window as her public display. She transformed the front window with a striking visual that depicts the uncomfortable truths of human trafficking. Using naked mannequins paired with stark ‘For Sale’ signs, the display contained powerful messages including “DECEIVED, COERCED, THREATENED, ABUSED, EXPLOITED, HIDDEN, and TRAPPED”. This eye-catching installation aimed to draw attention from passers-by, reflecting the truth of how modern slavery is hidden in plain sight.

window display showing a piece of paper on the window sill, with information about number of modern day slavery victims window display showing a naked mannequin with writing all over it

Jemma’s inspiration roots from either donated gifts, or other times from focusing on more topical themes such as modern slavery. Every two weeks, she continues to produce incredible displays that are both creative and meaningful.

Jemma said, ‘I want each display to be beautiful and thought-provoking, and sometimes to create shock and awe. There are so many good things that The Salvation Army stands for including its work supporting survivors of modern slavery’.

Jemma’s artwork represents a powerful way to inspire change and spark conversation. By expressing the harsh realities faced by those trapped in exploitation, we hope to amplify their voices and encourage others to take further action.

lady standing in front of window display, dressed in red trousers and chequered jumper with sleeves rolled up. Lanyard around the neck and black shoes.