On May 7, the Dallas philanthropic scene welcomes a new event to the lineup. Called Fashion For Freedom, this inaugural lunch and fashion show supports Mosaic Family Services in its effort to combat human trafficking.
“Due to its economic stability, cultural diversity, major interstates and airports, large number of sexually oriented businesses, and international border, North Texas has become a hub for human trafficking, commonly referred to as modern-day slavery,” says Le Ta of Mosaic Family Services. “According to an Urban Institute study, $99 million is spent annually on sex trafficking markets in Dallas.”
The event came about thanks to the efforts of a small but passionate group of people committed to changing the lives of human trafficking survivors. It started with a conversation between friends Juliette Longuet and Al Biernat, proprietor of the steakhouse that bears his name.
Longuet, a celebrated French fashion designer, is introducing her brand in Dallas, and she wanted to connect its launch with an organization she felt passionately about. To help her and the cause, Biernat offered to close his restaurant for an afternoon for the first time in 15 years to host this special event.
Mosaic reached out to local designer Abi Ferrin, an advocate for trafficking survivors around the world, to participate. “Supporting people rescued out of oppressive or abusive employment is what we have based our company purpose on,” says Ferrin, whose Freedom Project supports individuals rescued out of trafficking as they get on their feet and embrace hope and opportunity.
“This cause and organization is not very well-known in Dallas, and it is a severely under-funded organization. We wanted to spotlight this and hopefully help Mosaic in assisting more people with a better facility.”
During the luncheon, Ferrin intends to showcase her spring/summer collection, but she also has some surprises up her designer sleeve, including a sneak peek of her collaboration with East Coast artist-in-residency Banks Pappas. Themed “Arma Feminina,” the collaboration is inspired by strong Texas women. After the event, attendees are invited to shop Ferrin’s West Village flagship store, when the designer will donate a portion of all sales to Mosaic.
In addition to lunch, Fashion for Freedom guests can expect signature Mosaic martinis and a fashion show featuring designs from Ferrin and Longuet; ladies can shop for their favorite looks at the event’s pop-up store. Mayor Mike Rawlings is also expected to stop in and give remarks on Mosaic and the good work it is doing across North Texas.
All money raised will go toward building a new shelter to expand Mosaic’s ability to meet the ever-increasing need for its services. There are a few tickets left, and they can be purchased online. For sponsorship information, contact Le Ta at Mosaic Services at 214-821-5393 x. 263.
Abi Ferrin lends her passion for philanthropy to the first-ever Fashion for Freedom Lunch on May 7.
