Wesleyan Women Lead Church’s Anti-Trafficking Initiative
Sep. 3, 2009
Human trafficking is the world's fastest growing criminal industry. Victims are often hidden in plain view—in neighborhoods and the marketplace. American children and teenagers are at risk for becoming victims. This issue affects all of us because it affects our children, our families, our neighborhoods, our schools, and potentially, our churches.
Luis CdeBaca, Director of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, recently spoke with educators and professionals working with children, urging them to watch for opportunities to recognize and report possible abuses and trafficking. He stated, "Guards may notice and phone in the recruiters lurking on school grounds, waiting to entice girls with lies of glamour and excitement. Health practitioners and educators may notice signs of sexual abuse, depression, or fear. Principals may notice odd patterns of school attendance or registry of children by non-custodial adults."
The Wesleyan Church responds. The Church is part of a coalition of citizens sponsoring a forum, September 9, 7:00 p.m., at the Heartland Church auditorium, 96th Street and I-69, in Indianapolis. Guest speakers include Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, advisor on human trafficking to Presidents Clinton and George W. Bush, and Lisa L. Thompson from The Salvation Army who has given expert testimony to Congress on human trafficking. Visit www.StandAgainstTrafficking.com for more information about the forum.
Hands of Hope, September 10-12, will train attendees to better understand human trafficking and learn how to be most effective. Professional trainers will be at The Wesleyan Church World Headquarters in Fishers, Indiana. Be watching for a follow-up report and dates for training in your area.