National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month
Perhaps if we saw signs like these we’d have less of chance to ignore a rampant problem…
Today has been declared National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Were you aware?
President Obama proclaimed last week that January 2010 to be National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, calling for greater public awareness of the problem.
An estimated 27 million people worldwide are trapped as victims of human trafficking. The black market slave trade is lucrative, worth an estimated $9 billion a year, according to the FBI. One million children are new victims of forced prostitution, and 200,000 American women and children are at high risk for being forced into the sex industry. Human trafficking has become the fastest growing criminal activity in the world.
We must do something… And we can. There are many ways that we can combat human trafficking, and many organizations that are doing something to fight it. If you’re looking for something to get involved in, I would highly recommend that you contribute your time, talent and resources to make a difference in the lives of those at risk.
It happens closer to you than you think. This is not just an third world problem. This is happening in your city, no doubt about it. Human trafficking is a crime that takes the voice of so many. It is commanded that we become a voice for them.
Have you looked into trafficking statistics in your town/city? If so, do you know of any organizations fighting against it?
If so, I’d love to hear what they are so I can list & highlight them here.
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image: FCAHT
Are you familiar with brandedphx.com? It’s a great site! And they have ways that you can “take action.” They have options for if you have 5 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or 2 hours. Also, if you click on the right under “Latest News” there is a blog “ERROR…” Basically, there is legislation in Phoenix city council right now to make budget cuts from the Phoenix Vice Squad. They are not only combating this in Phoenix, but they are on the front lines of the national issue as well. They have a link to sign the petition, (which takes 2 seconds of your time,) and also all of the emails of leaders that you can send messages to to make your voice heard.
Thanks for your voice, Josh!
Julie- I am familiar with brandedphx, actually. I’ll be highlighting them later this week or sometime this month as part of highlighting local orgs that are fighting this. They do provide great ways to get involved!
Thanks for commenting….muchas gracias.
de nada.