Washington, D.C: As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, leaders from across the nation gathered in the nation’s capital for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) Impact Forum 2026 under the theme “America Wins When America Leads.”

Among the distinguished participants were Dancy and Harold D’Souza, Co-Founders of Eyes Open International, who represented Ohio as USGLC State Leaders and shared their expertise, lived experiences, and perspectives on global leadership, human dignity, and humanitarian service.

The forum brought together business leaders, policymakers, veterans, nonprofit organisations, faith leaders, and advocates to discuss America’s role in advancing diplomacy, international development, humanitarian assistance, and global partnerships.

D’Souzas engage with lawmakers on Capitol Hill

On June 3, 2026, Dancy and Harold D’Souza visited Capitol Hill, where they met with Senators, Representatives, Congressional staff members, and national leaders.

During the interactions, they highlighted issues related to survivor-informed leadership, combating human trafficking, protecting vulnerable populations, strengthening communities, and advancing policies that promote freedom, safety, and opportunity.

Harold D’Souza, an internationally recognised inspirational speaker, human rights advocate, and survivor leader, emphasised that America’s greatest strength lies not only in its economic and military influence but also in its ability to inspire hope, protect human dignity, and empower vulnerable communities around the world.

He stated that investments in diplomacy, education, healthcare, food security, and human rights contribute to building safer communities and a stronger global society.

Forum focuses on global leadership and humanitarian action

The USGLC Impact Forum highlighted several priorities, including strengthening diplomacy, preventing conflicts, promoting global health security, reducing hunger and poverty, supporting economic growth, and enhancing international partnerships.

Participants discussed strategies for addressing emerging global challenges while strengthening America’s leadership role through collaboration and humanitarian engagement.

The event also explored the importance of integrating diverse voices, including survivor leaders, into policy discussions and decision-making processes.

From survivors to global advocates

The participation of Dancy and Harold D’Souza carried a deeply personal message of resilience and transformation.

Through their work with Eyes Open International, the couple continues to educate communities, empower survivors, promote human rights, prevent exploitation, and support vulnerable populations worldwide.

Their initiatives include anti-human trafficking awareness programmes, humanitarian outreach activities, and educational and nutritional support projects for children in Tanzania.

Harold D’Souza’s journey from labour trafficking and debt bondage in the United States to becoming a respected international speaker and policy advocate has inspired audiences across the world.

Today, governments, universities, law enforcement agencies, nonprofit organisations, businesses, and community leaders regularly seek his insights on resilience, leadership, survivor empowerment, and human dignity.

Recognition from USGLC leadership

Following the forum, Liz Schrayer, President and Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, personally recognised Harold D’Souza for his contribution and impact during the event.

She acknowledged the significance of his meetings on Capitol Hill and noted that the collective voices of participants were making a meaningful difference in discussions surrounding diplomacy and international assistance.

The recognition underscored the growing importance of survivor leadership and the value of incorporating lived experiences into policies that shape communities and nations.

Family’s journey inspires communities worldwide

The story of the D’Souza family extends beyond survival and advocacy. It reflects resilience, faith, service, compassion, and purpose.

Together with their sons, Bradly and Rohan D’Souza, the family has transformed challenges into opportunities for positive change and community impact.

Their journey continues to inspire individuals and organisations worldwide by demonstrating that adversity does not determine destiny and that courage, perseverance, and service can create meaningful change.

As America looks ahead to its next 250 years, the D’Souzas’ story serves as a reminder that ordinary individuals can make extraordinary contributions by choosing hope over fear, service over self-interest, and purpose over pain.

Through advocacy, humanitarian action, and community engagement, Dancy and Harold D’Souza continue to influence lives across the United States and beyond, promoting dignity, freedom, and opportunity for all.