We’ve been bringing you on-going news regarding the cancellation of The Interview theater showings under the pressure of recent hacker attacks and the uproar it’s causing, but looking deeper into the terrifying realities of North Korea, one organization strives to aid North Korean refugees on the extremely hard and secret journey to freedom. Liberty in North Korea (LiNK) takes on the complex, sensitive subject of non-existent human rights for North Koreans by educating others on the history and the underground movements of the country. So much is shrouded in secrecy, but with changing technology and advocacy, there is a growing fight for a better life for the people under the current dictatorship.
LiNK created this page to help others more clearly understand the challenges and history of North Koreans. Many things that we may take for granted, such as freedom of speech and information, is not available to citizens under the dictatorship. In fact, they face constant famines, lack of public health systems, and even public executions and exploitation. It is a very emotional read, but examining hard truths always is.
What exactly does the LiNK organization do?
“We rescue refugees without cost or condition and ensure their safety and dignity on their journey to freedom…while hiding in China their illegal status forces them to work in invisible industries and leaves them vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous employers and sex traffickers, as they have no recourse to any authorities. Although many refugees try to escape many do not have the resources or connections to get themselves out of China. That’s where we come in.” -via Liberyinnorthkorea.org
Below is the breakdown of the $3000 cost of a rescue and resettlement by LiNK, which can also be found here.
So what can we do and how does this tie into fashion right?
Outside of the traditional donation methods, LiNK has their own shop full of statement making t-shirts. We already know graphic tops and jackets are favorite trends each season in Asia, but you can own or gift eye-catching tees that carry a more meaningful purpose. We talk about conversation starters in fashion continuously, but these could create a conversation that educates and can ultimately aid in the rescue process of a North Korean refugee.
LiNK’s graphic designers have created a variety of designs from simple text to pop art styles and with all proceeds funding LiNK’s work and mission. Below are some of their holiday shop designs with prices ranging from $10 to $40. Also, if you explore their shop you’ll find more than just tops: there’s coffee, canvas prints and even phone covers all made for a great cause. If you interested more about the traditional donation process click here.
While we settle in with our families for this Christmas holiday, we keep the lives of others nestled deeply within our hearts as well.
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