This year’s theme puts victims of human trafficking at the center of the campaign and will highlight the importance of listening to and learning from survivors of human trafficking. The campaign portrays survivors as key actors in the fight against human trafficking and focusses on the crucial role they play in establishing effective measures to prevent this crime, identify and rescue victims and support them on their road to rehabilitation.
Many victims of human trafficking have experienced ignorance or misunderstanding in their attempts to get help. They have had traumatic post-rescue experiences during identification interviews and legal proceedings. Some have faced revictimization and punishment for crimes they were forced to commit by their traffickers. Others have been subjected to stigmatization or received inadequate support.
Learning from victims’ experiences and turning their suggestions into concrete actions will lead to a more victim-centered and effective approach in combating human trafficking.” UNO on Drugs & Crime
EDUCATE
- UN Written Report - Human Faces, Hear Their Stories
- Read Jerome Elam's Survivor Story and Watch Him Now
- Read the July Issue of Sisters Against Trafficking Newsletter
ADVOCATE
- Follow international advocacy opportunities: https://www.ecpat.org/
- Sign the Petition to Walmart to Protect Seafarers
ACT
- Add the National Human Trafficking Hotline to your contact list as a resource
- In Canada: 1-833-900-1010
- In USA: 1-888-373-7888
- Keep Kids Safe Online - Contact Your Legislator
PRAY
Prayer for an End to Human Trafficking by Sr. Gen Cassani, SSND
God, we do not have the words to express what we can hardly grasp and what we feel when we hear about women and girls being deceived and transported to unknown places where they are sexually exploited and abused – out of human greed and greed for profit in this world today.
We are saddened and outraged at how the dignity and rights of these women and children are violated with threats, deception and violence. Against this degrading practice of “human trafficking” we loudly rebel and pray for its speedy end. Strengthen those who are of fragile minds and broken hearts.
Realize your promise, Lord, to embrace these our sisters with a love that is tender and good, and chase away the exploiters with empty hands! Give us the wisdom and courage to stand in solidarity with these women and girls, that together we may find ways to peace – the peace that is your gift to us all.
Amen.
