We did something this summer that, as far as we know, no one has ever done before.
We brought together dozens of survivors of forced and child marriage from across the United States for two days in New York City, so they could support and learn from each other. We called the extraordinary two-day, two-night, all-expenses-paid convening the Unchained Survivor Summit.
For many participants, it was their first time in The City That Never Sleeps, their first time watching a Broadway show (Six, which we highly recommend!) and their first time playing the djembe drum (yes, there was a drum circle involved). For all, it was their first time gathering with a large group of women who also had overcome and escaped a forced and/or child marriage.
Afterward, 97% of Unchained Survivor Summit participants said they left feeling more like “part of a community of survivors.” Some 91% said they left feeling more prepared to advocate for themselves and others. And, crucially, 100% said they had fun.
Watch out, world. Unchained is bringing together survivors and allies — like you — to demand an end to forced and child marriage.
