Happy New Year to all of you-
 
As most of you know, January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, as decreed by presidential proclamation. January is also known as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.  This proclamation was started in 2010 by President Obama and has carried forward each year since.
 
This month provides opportunities for us to have discussions with our friends and colleagues on the issue of human trafficking and human slavery which continues to be one of the worst human rights crimes globally. 
 
This month is also a time for us as the Rotary Club to End Human Trafficking to focus on what we can accomplish as leaders within Rotary and our communities.   As we move into 2022, I want us to be reminded of the Rotary motto that we are “A people of Action”.  I am excited about the work that our club has accomplished already in leading actions to end human trafficking. But I am also thrilled at the energy that I am seeing in all of you as we pivot the work of our club to be people of action as well. 
 
Please plan on attending the two great speakers we have lined up for our January meetings:
 
On January 13, we will hear from Matt Friedman, an international expert on Human/Labor Trafficking.  He will be speaking on Turning Ideas to Action- what a perfect challenge for us to start the year
 
On January 27, we will hear from Ashlie Bryant, the founder and CEO of 3Strands Global Foundation.  This organization has partnered with several Rotary Clubs and RAGAS to deploy impressive educational programs for students.  You will be inspired by Ashlie’s energy, knowledge and passion to prevent the next generation from ever falling victim to human trafficking through education.
 
It is my hope that these two speakers will inspire all of us to take small steps in ending human trafficking!
 
Karen
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