From its inception, O.U.R. has been inspired and informed by the history of the 19th century Underground Railroad. This complex network of houses, routes, and safe harbors was developed by brave Americans who saw the injustice of slavery and would not rest until they saw their fellow Americans freed. The individuals who ran the operations to free slaves were referred to as “conductors”. These conductors were a diverse group of people. Some conductors were freed or escaped slaves. Some came from wealth and other poverty. But they all had one thing in common. They understood their responsibility in the fight against slavery.


Conductors facilitated the escape of slaves, gave them safe harbor on their journey to freedom, provided food and other supplies, made sure freed slaves would have employment after their journeys and so much more. All under threat of arrest and sometimes even losing their own lives.


We recognize the differences between the modern-day slavery of human trafficking and the realities of slavery at the time of the Underground Railroad. But we can take note from the courageous people who saw the injustices of slavery and apply it to the fight in which we are engaged.


The new outreach program from O.U.R., the “Conductor Club” encourages volunteers to emulate the spirit of these brave individuals in the modern-day fight against human-trafficking.


We encourage our volunteers to learn about the history of the Underground Railroad of the 19th century.