For many, freedom is still a dream. Wednesday, 2 December, is observed as the "International Day for the abolition of slavery" -- a day that seeks to end modern forms of slavery. In the 21st centry, we are forced to confront ill practices such as forced marriages, child labour, sexual exploitation and human trafficking, acts that exist and pervade in millions of households across the globe. If our basic right to live as equals in society is jeopardised, we must speak up and try to end slavery that defeats the very purpose of humanity. As actress Emma Watson once said, "If not now, then when?"

Here is a list of other renowned celebrities from our generation who've shared powerful and inspiring thoughts on how to respect, end violence, and force children into labour.

Angelina Jolie

"We have to end this culture of impunity. If people are able to get away with these crime then it will continue and it happened because so many times in the past when women have been taken raped and abused and nobody suffers any consequence for it. It is our fault in many ways that we've left this situation in such a way that these men feel that's it's something that they could do."

Jared Leto

"Information and Awareness are the most powerful tools in the fight against human trafickking. It starts with you and me."

Jennifer Lawrence

Just the fact that somebody can be sexually exploited and violated, and the first thought that crosses somebody's mind is to make a profit from it. It's so beyond me. I just can't imagine being that detached from humanity. I can't imagine being that thoughtless and careless and so empty inside.

Patrick Stewart

The people who could do most to improve the situation of so many women and children are in fact, men. It's in our hands to stop violence towards women.

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