A reflection on our first social justice focus.

Over the last year Southwark Cathedral has focused on the contemporary evil of modern slavery. Partnering with Hestia and other charities, and with generous funding from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and Virginia Theological Seminary, we have hosted many events, podcasts, installations, and talks. We have trained staff, congregation, day chaplains and listeners, and raised awareness amongst visitors. We have welcomed victims of modern slavery in several creative workshops, conversations, and choirs. Currently there is an art exhibition in the café by former domestically enslaved people.

Last week, the Dean hosted a small ‘thank you’ party for the charities and people who have worked with and at the Cathedral to achieve all this. Guests included representatives of the Glaziers’ Company, Hestia, Pan Intercultural Arts, Southwark Against Modern Slavery, and Amies Freedom Choir.

Susan Rogers, Head of Communications at Hestia said: “On behalf of Hestia, I’d like to thank the Dean and all the team at Southwark Cathedral. Over the past year, their powerful focus on this modern slavery has helped shine a light on this brutal crime. It has brought survivors’ voices and stories into public view in meaningful and moving ways. From hosting our Art is Freedom exhibition, which showcases art and photography created by survivors of modern slavery, to creating safe and welcoming spaces where survivors can come together, share, and connect, including hosting our crochet and knitting workshops. As we look ahead, we truly hope the legacy of this partnership continues long beyond this year, as we work together to end modern slavery once and for all.”

Southwark Against Modern Slavery commented: “This has been an amazing year for the Anti-Slavery message across our Diocese. Thank you so much for making it the theme for the Cathedral in 2025. It has been brilliant for us to be part of the whole thing….No one will ever know just how many lives have been touched…This is a model that others could take forward - which we hope they will”.

The Cathedral now prepares for its 2026 social justice programme. The theme is ‘Literacy’ as 2026 has been designated a ‘national year for reading’. More information will follow in due course.