When courage meets compassion, justice begins to rise. Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil and Harold D’Souza are igniting a global movement: one heart, one home, and one human soul at a time.
Cincinnati, Ohio — July 21–24, 2025: A rare and radiant chapter in the global fight against modern-day slavery unfolded in Cincinnati, Ohio, where international human rights advocates Harold and Dancy D’Souza warmly hosted His Royal Highness Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil—the world’s first openly gay prince, along with his husband Duke of Hanumanteshwar DeAndre, Kris, and John Lamb at their “Happy Home.”
Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, a globally celebrated voice for LGBTQ+ rights and anti-human trafficking activism, serves on the Board of Directors for Eyes Open International (EOI) and as a Trustee of Eyes Open Trust in India. His journey of authenticity and advocacy aligns powerfully with Harold D’Souza’s mission to liberate lives from the shadows of exploitation into the sunlight of dignity and freedom.
A highlight of the Prince’s visit took place on June 22, at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, where he witnessed an exhibit unlike any other, “Shine A Light.” On the museum’s third floor, guests can trigger an audio-visual experience by simply shining a light on the panel. When the light touches Harold D’Souza’s story, he appears on screen -alive, speaking, and glowing like a beacon of hope.
Prince Manvendra was visibly moved, describing the moment as “miraculous, inspiring, and soul stirring.” His reaction echoed that of many museumgoers that day, who paused in awe to see, meet, and photograph the living legend, Harold D’Souza himself.
Dr. Yvan Demosthenes, Board Member of EOI, who accompanied the royal delegation, reflected:“Harold doesn’t just speak of survival, he embodies rebirth. His humility and global influence are unmatched.”
As word spread, visitors flooded the exhibit area, eager for a moment with the man whose journey from slavery to global leadership is now etched in history. But the story didn’t stop there.
Dr. Lara Wilken, Board President of Eyes Open International, and Tracy G. McGinley, Board Vice President of EOI, extended a powerful invitation, to bring the message of hope and transformation to Bowling Green State University (BGSU) and Erie County Prison.
In Erie County Prison, Brad Downing, founder of the Jail Life Recovery Program, gave an emotional tour to Prince Manvendra, Harold D’Souza, and their guests. The visit culminated in a heartfelt address from Harold to the inmates, a moment that many described as “life-changing.”
With openness and honesty, Harold spoke of his fall and rise:“I accepted my mistakes. I changed my mind, my thinkingand I started from zero. Today, I stand not above you, but with you.”
He invoked Nelson Mandela, reminding prisoners that change is not only possible, it is powerful. He left them with four pillars of purpose:“Be happy, think positive, never quit, and believe in yourself.”
The royal couple, Prince Manvendra and his husband DeAndre, also shared their resilience and journey, drawing strength from vulnerability and the power of love. Their new memoir, A Royal Commitment: Ten Years of Marriage and Activism, is currently being promoted across the United States. One of its most treasured features is the foreword written by Harold D’Souza, whose life story and friendship add an emotional depth to the royal couple’s narrative.
Their time in Ohio also brought together pillars of justice, including Sheriff Paul A. Sigsworth of Erie County, who was honored to meet both Prince Manvendra and Harold D’Souza. Sheriff Sigsworth remarked,“To host two warriors for humanity under one roof is not just a privilege, it is a divine appointment.”
From the Freedom Center to the prison walls, and from university students to museum visitorshearts were opened, minds were changed, and lives were deeply touched.
As the world watches this powerful alliance between a Prince who dared to love openly and a survivor who chose to live purposefully, one truth is clear:
“Slavery may have changed its face, but so has the fight.”
Prince Manvendra and Harold D’Souza are not just symbols of hope, they are architects of a future where freedom, equality, and dignity are the birthright of every human being.
About Eyes Open International:
EOI is a U.S.-based nonprofit founded by Harold and Dancy D’Souza, committed to preventing human trafficking through education, empowerment, and survivor leadership. With board members across the globe, EOI is building bridges where walls once stood.
Together, we don’t just break chains, we build new legacies of light.