A Brief Look at Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is an all too real and prominent issue in today’s society. We tend to have this preconceived notion that human trafficking only exists in third world countries where the citizens are undereducated and underprivileged. This is a grave misconception. Human trafficking is a real problem that occurs right here in the United States. Additionally, it is not only an issue that takes a hold over women; it affects men as well. Women are often forced into sex trafficking while men are often forced into labor trafficking. It is an issue that affects both genders, all over the world.

Organizations across America such as Trafficking Hope in Baton Rouge, work endlessly in order to provide some relief for the victims and raise awareness of human trafficking. Heather Bush of Trafficking Hope claims, “Human trafficking is actually a form of modern day slavery.” Non-profits such as Trafficking Hope often have rehabilitation places like where the people that they save from the trafficking market can heal, both physically and mentally.

According to the National Human Trafficking Resource center, as of December of 2007, a total of 24,156 human trafficking cases have been reported to authorities. Human trafficking extends to areas such as sex and labor trafficking. Criminals will sell men and women on the black market in order to profit from their mere existence. Human trafficking in general is such a “profitable” industry because of the perceived low risks involved with such an industry.

The lack of governmental regulation, lawful enforcement, and social awareness, along with social shaming of the victims, all continuously lead to the advancement of this unethical industry. We are not made in the Lord’s image to be bought and sold as commodities. We must stand together as His children and fight this horrible epidemic that is no longer just a “third world problem.”

With adults and children of all ages, of all genders, this issue affects more people than first apparent. We cannot afford to sit back and allow others to take charge when it comes to this subject matter. We must be at the front lines, ready to extend God’s word to those in need. Not only do the victims of human trafficking need rehabilitation, they need reassurance that getting caught up in a dark industry such as human trafficking is not their fault. Through extending the grace of our Lord and His word, we can aid in bringing the victims to a place where they can begin to heal. This healing starts with the Lord.

Through raising awareness and donations for those effecting by human trafficking, we can show the world that this is a profound aspect of our society that needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later. Talk to your friends and family about human trafficking and how each of you can get involved. Becoming a part of the solution to end human trafficking does not necessarily mean getting physically involved. You can make donations, educate yourself and those around you about human trafficking, and continuously pray for the victims, their families and the criminals. Prayer is power.

The experiences and circumstances that these victims had to endure are shocking. No human being should ever have to find themselves in those situations. This is why we are passionate about bringing the victims and their captors, to justice. Call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1 (888) 373-7888 or visit their website at https://humantraffickinghotline.org

 

More on Trafficking Hope and helping out on the local level at… http://www1.wbrz.com/videos/trafficking-hope-28302

–by Isabella Martinez

About the Author:

Victoria G. Simpson

VICTORIA GRACE SIMPSON recently earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in International Studies with a Minor in Professional Writing from Spring Hill College. She also earned her certification to teach English as a Second Language in Italy.

CSM