|
|
|
|
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month!
Take a look at what government agencies and organizations around the state are doing to build awareness and further the cause of the anti-human trafficking movement.
Ohio held its 6th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 15th. Representative Theresa Fedor, a champion for HB 262, started by honoring victims of human trafficking: “For those who need rescued and restored. For those who didn’t survive and are lost to us forever, and for enough hope, courage, and love to make a difference.” Also speaking was Governor John Kasich, who commended the resilience of survivors by stating that they embody the values of personal responsibility and empathy. Kasich believes “[a survivor’s] message can apply to anyone who has difficulty: ‘Yes I was down, but now I’m up because I took control of my life. I own my life.’ They are modern day heroes.”
The day also included three panel discussions. Composed of experts in the field, two were meant to educate law enforcement and social service agencies. The third panel was composed of survivors and of sex trafficking. Each panelist recounted her journey of victim to survivor. The final step, which is thriving, is the ultimate goal. Watch portions of the day here.
Other awareness activities:
End Slavery Cincinnati distributed coffee cup sleeves to coffee shops throughout Downtown Cincinnati, Clifton, Northern Kentucky, and surrounding areas.
The Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center hosted a screening of the documentary In Plain Sight on January 29th at the Peaslee Neighborhood Center, with a discussion to follow.
On January 23rd, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center discussed what you can do to combat human trafficking, right now. The discussion featured remarks from Senator Rob Portman.
If you feel inspired and would like to do more, visit our website! You can request a training, host an event, or join our coalition!
|
|
Annual Conference Feb 6th!
At End Slavery Cincinnati, we’re all gearing up for our 8th Annual Greater Cincinnati Human Trafficking Conference taking place on Friday, February 6, at the American Red Cross on Dana Ave. This year, we will have 12 presentations, and they will cover such topics as the trafficking of vulnerable populations, the healthcare response to human trafficking, community engagement, as well as global sex tourism. Read an interview with one of our presenters, Michael Sheline, Assistant Section Chief in the Ohio Attorney General’s Crime Victims Services Section. We hope this conference will be an opportunity for those who have limited knowledge and for those who are deeply engaged in anti-trafficking efforts information to learn more about best practices, new techniques, and the issue in general. Learn more and pre-register here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
