S.L.A.V.E.R.Y.

Lying in bed on a late February evening in 2007, I picked up a magazine that I’d begun reading a few days before. On what I remember being close to the last page, I learned something that has altered my life — Human trafficking is a global problem. I could not wrap my head around what I was reading; human trafficking is modern-day slavery; slavery has been abolished — so I thought. We are living in the 21st century — how have we allowed this to happen?

Trafficking is the 2nd largest crime worldwide!

Unfortunately, thousands of individuals are trapped in various forms of enslavement, right here in our country and in our backyard (our cities and neighborhoods). Oftentimes young women are caught up in prostitution and children are forced in both sex and labor against their will.

Culturally, we ought to identify with every individual’s humanity and appreciate that we all are created for a very distinct purpose. Slavery is not tied to any man, woman or child’s purpose, in any way.

The good news: we can make a difference. There are several ways we can link arms and take action against this atrocity.

Here are some things you can do to make a difference:

  • Become an abolitionist
  • Spread the word – get to know the statistics
  • Support local and global campaigns
  • Become aware of what’s happening in your neighborhood
  • Start an awareness group

Below are a few websites that I am affiliated with:
The Central Texas Coalition Against Human Trafficking
What’s Your Response
The A21 Campaign
The Pearl Alliance
Stop Child Trafficking Now

Question:  How informed are you on the issue of human trafficking?

Cheryl