On MAY 14, 2011, Chattanooga students and residents will continue today’s abolition movement with a children’s carnival benefiting International Justice Mission (IJM), a D.C.-based human rights agency that secures justice for victims of slavery, sexual exploitation, and other forms of violent oppression in 13 countries in the developing world.

Desiring to do something for children locally and globally, Lauren Jackson, a senior at Girls’ Preparatory School, along with her family and friends invites Chattanooga’s children to a carnival at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The carnival will have a global theme in order to raise awareness about modern day slavery and educate children about cultures around the world.

Along with the cultural aspect of the carnival, you can expect all your carnival favorites – cotton candy, cakewalk, face painting, arts and crafts, ring toss, games, music, food, and more!

Donations are requested to help cover the cost of families under local social services organizations who are unable to pay the admission price.

In addition to the carnival, there will be an evening candle light service to remember the men, women, and children around the world who are trapped in slavery. A representative from Second Life will speak about the problem of human trafficking in Chattanooga specifically, and a student led band will lead us in music. The service begins at 7:00pm at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church.