In the first speech on slavery by a sitting president since Abraham Lincoln, President Obama called on communities, businesses and nations to come together to combat modern-day slavery.

“It ought to concern every person, because it’s a debasement of our common humanity. It ought to concern every community, because it tears at our social fabric. It ought to concern every business, because it distorts markets. It ought to concern every nation, because it endangers public health and fuels violence and organized crime,” he said.

During his speech the President announced an executive order to strengthen protections against trafficking in federal contracts and promised to provide the necessary tools and training for relevant officials and agencies.

“Our fight against trafficking is one of the great human rights causes of our time, and the United States will continue to lead it in partnership with you, ” he concluded.

Watch President Obama’s speech and get involved today.