This key is a symbol of hope that even on a tiny island in the middle of the Atlantic people can make a difference to the plight of millions of slaves across the world.

On one side it says "Unlock Freedom" and on the other "Stop The Traffik", the international anti-slavery coalition fighting to raise awareness of human trafficking, child labour, bonded labour and other forms of slavery which continue to plague the planet.

Organisers of Bermuda's first Run For Freedom — which will raise money for Stop The Traffik — have been hitting the streets to sell the Freedom Keys and spread the word about the run scheduled for March 30 at 1 p.m.

Their message is that people in Bermuda can show the rest of the world how they care about modern day slavery and put pressure on global leaders to stamp it out simply by turning the Run For Freedom into an special event.

The Front Street run, which could have international media coverage through MTV, is only a mile long and culminates with a party in Barr's Bay Park.

To ensure nobody feels left out, those who don't want to Run For Freedom will be allowed to Walk For Freedom instead. It isn't a race.

New MP Donte Hunt — modelling the key from the birdcage in our picture — has said he will take part and is calling for others to do the same.

Explaining his support, Mr. Hunt told The Royal Gazette: "It's a humanitarian issue. Everybody and anybody who can should support this. I'm just honoured to have been asked to put my name behind it.

"This is something that affects families. They may not be in Bermuda, but they are humans and like so many people I have a love for humanity, period, and a love for families.

"I'll take part in the run and I would love to see as many people as possible do the same and show how they feel about modern day slavery."

Charlotte Wilberforce, the great-great-great granddaughter of slave emancipator William Wilberforce, was out rallying support around Hamilton with fellow organiser Milton Raposo yesterday.

They were taking photographs of supporters holding Freedom Keys, which will be posted on Run For Freedom's website.

As well as Mr. Hunt, they got Culture Minister Dale Butler and Energy Minister Terry Lister to pose for their pictures.

Mr. Lister gave his backing to the run, and said he would take part if he is able.

Mr. Butler, who has already publicly supported the run, played a part in its development by awarding charity status after its initial application to the Charities Commission was unsuccessful last year.

"I met with her this morning to discuss her plans and I feel very encouraged and heartened that I made the best decision. I have no doubt the event will be an outstanding success," he said.

Other charities could also benefit from the walk and are asked to contact organisers.

Entry forms are now available from Daisy & Mac, Washington Mall Upper Level, KAFU Hair and Gallery in Parliament Street, The Royal Gazette office in Par-la-Ville, and are being distributed elsewhere.

It costs $10 for children up to 16; $20 for adults; $50 for a family of four; $30 to enter on the day of the event.

The first 300 entrants will receive a free T-shirt and goody bag.

You can send direct payments to Bank of Bermuda's Run For Freedom Account on 010-778488-011. You can also sign up on-line, or let organisers know you're a local charity who could benefit from Run For Freedom, by e-mailing runforfreedom@yahoo.com.

For more information, visit www.geocities.com/runforfreedom/london_bermuda.html.