January is End Human Trafficking Awareness Month: Two Learning Sessions
It takes awareness and action to make positive change. Human trafficking continues to devastate our communities and the world. With your commitment and willingness, we can change the future for many and fight for the freedom of millions. It's time to act.
Every four seconds, another person has been trapped and forced into human trafficking somewhere in the world or your community. Human trafficking claims many and often goes unnoticed. It's estimated that there are over 40 million people in modern-day slavery today. Yes, human trafficking is slavery; people are being forced to do acts against their will. Of that 40 million, 75 percent are being exploited for sex, and of that, about half are children. Human trafficking is a $150 billion per year business globally. Without acknowledging and addressing this dire issue, it will continue to wreak havoc in our communities and remain a global crisis.
With the network and influence of Rotary International, our goal is to accumulate increase awareness around this issue. To do this, we need your help.
You can begin by attending meetings and learning more about human trafficking, how it happens, and its prevalence in our cities and communities.
Two upcoming guest speakers
- January 14, 2021, at 7 a.m. CST – Jessica Hamlet tells her story of overcoming years of exploitation – a journey many of us cannot imagine. Her strength, determination and belief in the transformative power of education, self-exploration and discipline will inspire you. Register to hear Jessica's story via ZOOM. https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIscu-pqD8tE9H-F-tO-7lUnw7w7_XekxJ4
- January 28, 2021, at 7 a.m. CST – Matt Friedman, CEO of Mekong Club, will offer a comprehensive update on human trafficking and its relevance to the private sector. Learn more about modern slavery Register on ZOOM. https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJErdO2hpzsqHtdnSAhDMDk3NpBpmA_5AloQ
Our Rotary to End Human Trafficking mission began in 2017, and every day since, we've committedly taken action against modern slavery. With the persistence and dedication of 160 Clubs and approximately 5,000 Rotarians from across the world, we've sparked significant momentum forward. Together, we've elevated awareness surrounding this pressing issue. To continue to make strides and positive change, we need strength in numbers and advocacy. We're looking to partner with other Rotary clubs around the world, and we invite you to join us moving into our next phase. If you're a champion already invested and passionate about this work, please connect with us.
