’Hero’ of modern slavery honoured

ANU alumna and human rights lawyer Anne Gallagher AO has been honoured for her work on international human trafficking law in a ceremony coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the US Emancipation Proclamation. A leading expert on the subject of human trafficking, Gallagher was named one of 10 'Trafficking in Persons Heroes' who have made a significant contribution in the struggle against modern slavery by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in June. At a ceremony at ANU this week, Gallagher was honoured by US Ambassador Jeffrey Bleich to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the US Emancipation Proclamation by President Lincoln to abolish slavery. Renowned performer Kamahl recited President Lincoln's famous speech, the Gettysburg Address. Gallagher said she felt honoured by the recognition she had received. "I feel very privileged to be in the company of such brave and inspirational people. I'm hoping to use this recognition to further the issue [of human trafficking] in Australia and internationally," she said.