Washington: Harold D’Souza, a global human rights advocate, international inspirational speaker, and member of the Ohio State Leadership Team, was honored to participate in the 2025 IMPACT Forum hosted by the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) in the heart of the nation’s capital. The forum, held from June 9 to June 10, brought together diplomats, policymakers, changemakers, and survivors to champion a future where U.S. leadership remains a beacon of hope, human dignity, and international solidarity.
The event kicked off with a powerful message from Liz Schrayer, President & CEO of USGLC, declaring, “America wins when America leads.” This sentiment echoed throughout the Forum as D’Souza joined voices advocating for a stronger global presence through the International Affairs Budget, a critical lifeline for communities in crisis worldwide.
Capitol Hill Advocacy: From Lived Experience to Legislative Engagement
On June 10th, Harold D’Souza visited Capitol Hill to personally engage with Congressional leaders. In a moving moment, he met Congressman Greg Landsman [D-OH01] at his office in the Rayburn House Office Building. “A dream come true,” D’Souza shared. “From being a voiceless man to meeting Congressman Landsman in person, this is more than advocacy; it is divine destiny.” Their meeting symbolized the bridge between personal tragedy and public transformation, echoing Harold’s lifelong mission to end human trafficking and promote justice.
D’Souza also had the privilege to visit the offices of Congresswoman Joyce Beatty [D-OH03], Congressman Mike Carey [R-OH15], and Senator Jon Husted [R-OH], offering heartfelt gratitude for their continued support of the International Affairs Budget. “This budget,” D’Souza emphasized, “is not just numbers. It is hope, it is freedom, and it is life for millions.”
A Voice for the Voiceless: Harold’s Message to the World
In an emotional dialogue with The Honorable Wesley Bell [D-MO], Harold shared his journey, from being trafficked in the land he once saw as a dream, to becoming a leader in the movement against modern-day slavery. “In India, people call America ‘Swarg’, Heaven,” he reflected. “For me, America became the battlefield where my pain turned into purpose.”
Today, Harold D’Souza is no longer a victim. He is a survivor, a leader, and a game-changer. With support from U.S. law enforcement agencies and compassionate community members, he transformed his trauma into testimony, inspiring national and international efforts to combat human trafficking.
His advocacy on Capitol Hill was not just symbolic; it was strategic. D’Souza highlighted the return on investment (ROI) in international aid, how smart investments in global development promote peace, prevent conflict, and safeguard freedom.
Global Recognition: Hollywood & Bollywood Unite
Harold’s story continues to capture hearts across continents. A Hollywood documentary titled “To Be Free,” executive produced by the legendary Martin Sheen and directed by Benjamin Ryan Nathan, is in the works. The teaser trailer, already making waves, previews Harold’s incredible path from exploitation to empowerment.
Meanwhile, Bollywood has announced plans for a blockbuster biopic on Harold’s life, tracing his journey from humble beginnings in India to the White House and the halls of Capitol Hill. Harold’s story, unbelievable, miraculous, stunning, and flabbergasting—is soon to inspire millions on the silver screen.
Gratitude and a Call to Action
“I am a common man, a failure, a sinner,” Harold often says, “but by God’s grace and America’s justice, I became an extraordinary voice for change.” As he stood under the dome of the U.S. Capitol, he carried not just his story, but the cries of countless others still in the shadows of slavery.
Harold extended special thanks to the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition for their leadership and vision, and to every member of Congress who takes time to listen, learn, and legislate for justice.
A Future Fueled by Freedom
As the world faces complex challenges, Harold D’Souza’s life is a testament that one voice, when brave enough to speak, can ignite a movement. From Capitol Hill to classrooms, shelters, and boardrooms, he reminds us that change is possible when passion meets purpose.
The message is clear: fight for freedom, advocate for dignity, and never underestimate the power of lived experience.
For more information about Harold D’Souza, Eyes Open International, and the upcoming documentary “To Be Free,” visit: www.eyesopeninternational.org
Together, we are the voice of hope, action, and transformation.