Emergency Fundraiser for Human Trafficking Survivors
Hope is more powerful than fear –– That’s why Rising Worldwide, Santa Cruz’s international anti-human trafficking organization is hosting Rising at the Rio, a night of entertainment to fundraise emergency support for local and global survivors of human trafficking.
SōLauren, an Emmy-winning soul and hip-hop sensation from Oakland, CA will make a special appearance. The event also includes a survivor-curated art gallery, and performance art created by anti-trafficking movement leaders that transmutes trauma into triumph into tangible action. All proceeds support Rising Worldwide’s anti-trafficking programs including an urgent needs fund for local 2SLGBTQIA+ and immigrant survivors grappling with the rise in hate crimes and economic disparity.
SōLauren will be joined by actress and comedian Venus Morris who will perform an excerpt from the play, “Trafficked” written by playwright and activist Cat Brooks. Survivors and spoken word artists include Mercy Gray, Ummra Hang, Jess Torres, and more! The event’s co-host Assemblymember Gail Pellerin will speak to the increase in hate crimes since the Trump administration took office.
Rising will also celebrate its founder, Carmel Jud’s 60th birthday at this event. If you're unable to attend the event but would still like to support emergency resources for survivors, please consider making a donation.
Event sponsors include Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, Paystand, AAUW Santa Cruz Branch, and Judy Brose Century 21 Real Estate.
When: Friday, March 28, 2025 | Doors at 6:30pm | Show at 7:30pm
Where: The Rio Theatre | 1205 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
ABOUT: Rising Worldwide is a local/global, survivor-led organization transforming the lives of survivors of war, gender-based violence, human trafficking and extreme poverty through economic justice and ecosystems of care.
Contact: Carmel Jud, Founder of Rising Worldwide | carmel@risingworldwide.org
For tickets visit https://risingworldwide.org/