Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SHP)
Mangaluru, Nov 27: St Aloysius College (Autonomous) organised a talk here on Wednesday, November 27, to create awareness on the concept of modern-day slavery and debt bondage.
The speaker for the day was Harold D'Souza, member of the United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. D’Souza is one of the most popular faces, who fought an uphill battle against the evils of slavery. Harold's outspoken advocacy for the survivors was the reason that the former US President Barack Obama appointed him as the member of the Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. He continues to serve under the Trump administration, championing for the freedom of the victims.
Addressing the gathering, Harold D'Souza voiced for an individual's right to freedom. Recalling an account of his battles which rendered him vulnerable, Harold stressed the value of being happy in life over materialistic pleasures. Sharing one of his pearls of wisdom, Harold said, "Failure is a path to success, never quit."
Harold also said, "The younger generation needs to follow four aspects of life. First is to 'be happy', second 'be grateful' to one's family, professors who shape and nurture the individual. The third is to 'be empowered' and fourth to 'never stop believing’. He stressed the importance of extracurricular activities alongside education which can help sustain a student.
Harold highlighted the need for an individual to be sympathetic and humane. Quoting Mother Theresa, Harold said, "If you judge people, you have no time to love them." Emphasizing the situation faced while under slavery, Harold endorsed the idea of never giving up. Even when a person has hit rock bottom, the thought of committing suicide should never be considered as an option. Harold promoted the goal to live a passionate life, chasing dreams and not compromising on the values and ethics he/she is raised on.
He advised people not to fall victim to the promises and urged to tread cautiously and not go ahead with anything that seems out of the ordinary and discouraged the idea of opting the shortcut or the illegal means to get to a particular destination in life.
According to Harold, one of the reasons people get cheated on is because of the desire and dream to lead a wealthy life. Students fresh out of college and the professionals who want to flip their life around instantaneously are easily trapped. The International Labour Organisation estimates that forced labour and human trafficking is a $150 billion industry worldwide with more than 40 million victims. Harold underlined that although money can seem like the most coveted thing, it should never surpass human dignity.
He urged people to be aware and report what they see. A small step can help one more person or one more family from escaping the evils of trafficking.
"Do what you like, go for it. Be passionate, be happy and live life to the fullest. Tolerance, silence is not an option. We need to stand up for freedom," he concluded.
Dr Shalini Ayappa, HOD- Psychology, convenor of the event welcomed the gathering. Student of St Aloysius College, Shivani, compered the programme and Dr Vincent Mascarenhas, dean of International Studies rendered the vote of thanks.
The principal, St Aloysius College, Dr Praveen Martis SJ, registrar A M Narahari, Dr Alwyn D'Sa, Fr Pradeep Anthony SJ, convenor Dr Shalini Ayappa and Dr Vincent Mascarenhas and others were present.
Whilst being a part of an important position at the White House, Harold has not forgotten his roots in Mangaluru. An alumnus of St Aloysius College and Convent of Jesus and Mary, he and his family occasionally visit the city and makes a note to visit his father's grave to pay respects. Harold profoundly talks about the country and how he will continue to strive for the betterment of Indians.