Minerals that come from the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo turn up in electronics, in light bulbs, batteries and other everyday items. It would be hard to escape our connection to these items, and through them, our connection to slavery and conflict in Congo. 

Free the Slaves and human rights organizations in Congo have documented abuses against miners in Congo, including forced labor, debt bondage, and hazardous child labor. Other forms of slavery like the use of child soldiers and the prostitution of children also exist in mining areas. (See our findings here). 

WHAT YOU CAN DO

What can you do about it? Under a new U.S. law (download a PDF of the legislation here), companies are required to tell the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) how they monitor the source of their long international supply chain. And the SEC is asking you, the general public, for comments on how this law should be implemented.

Sign this petition to tell the SEC: Don't overlook slavery in Congo mines!