15th Annual From Slavery to Freedom Gala

May 9, 2013 at Sofitel Hotel in Beverly Hills

Recap: On May 9th, Angeleno Magazine produced CAST’s 15th Annual From Slavery to Freedom Event at the beautiful Sofitel Hotel in Beverly Hills. Built around the theme, “Modern-Day Slavery, It Ends With Us,” the event provided CAST with an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the social and systematic changes that occur when a coalition of diverse and dedicated community members, business leaders, volunteers, donors, students and survivors come together to put an end to modern-day slavery.

As for the program…it may have been our best yet! Honorary Event Host, Jada Pinkett Smith and her daughter Willow Smith brought attention to the horrific abuses that occur to children, women and men who are forced into slavery right here in the U.S. each and every day. Actress, Sara Rue lent her support by generously serving as the event emcee. Additionally, classical pianist and recipient of CAST’s 2013 Creative Impact Award, Chloe Flower performed a few of the songs she composed about modern-day slavery. Journalist Lisa Ling, actor Jericho Rosales and singer Nicole Scherzinger graciously participated as presenters and spokespeople during the evening as well.

Susan and Rena Stern received a 2013 Founder’s Leadership Award for helping to rescue a trafficking survivor from her situation and for their continued work as modern-day abolitionists. Sasha Lieblein and Anna Stern were honored with a 2013 Founder’s Leadership Award for raising awareness about human trafficking at their schools. Pasi was honored with the 2013 Courage Award for her bravery in overcoming her situation and reaching out to other survivors of human trafficking.

Guests were treated to an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and a beautiful program. Upon departure, guests received generously donated products from Dermalogica, along with items from Badger Balm, Choice Organic Tea, and bSafe app cards.

At the event, we launched a Freedom Campaign. Just over $200,000 was generated at the event.