Icon viewers:
Many are shocked to learn that slavery is more prevalent in 2018 than in the years prior to 1865.
The International Labor Organization estimates that there are approximately 21 million people trapped in Human Trafficking world-wide and it is estimated that several million people in the U.S. are victims of trafficking. The proceeds from sex trafficking and forced labor generate over $150 billion annually. This past year over 200 cases have been investigated in Ohio (the 4th largest caseload in the country).
Sexual exploitation and forced labor are the most commonly identified forms of human trafficking. Other forms include domestic servitude, forced marriage, and organ removal. Primary groups targeted as potential victims include persons with disabilities and young children and teens. The most frequent tools used by traffickers to make contact with and to trap their victims are the internet and social media.
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization located in Seneca County is planning numerous events and activities to spread the word about human trafficking.
Sisters in Shelter’s mission is to educate the public and to provide a safe shelter and rehab program for adult female victims who have escaped from their traffickers. Some of their activities for the month include:
- Displays about Human Trafficking in public places;
- An 8 week training course for those interested in a deeper understanding of this issue;
- Asking churches in the area to include prayer petitions on Sundays in January for victims of this horrid illegal business;
- Special programs in some area schools;
- Launching a “Meet Jane Doe” project aimed at educating students and their parents.
Sr. Mary Kuhlman, Director of Sisters in Shelter, often includes these words when she is speaking to groups. “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.”
Everyone can help spread the word; everyone can watch out for suspicious red flag indicators that someone may be a target or entrapped; everyone can advocate for victims and legislation that will work towards alleviating this crime against humanity.
For more information about display availability, training courses, speakers and programs, contact the Sisters in Shelter office located at 31 ½ S. Washington Street, 567-938-6163 or visit www.sistersinshelter.com.
Contact:
Sister Mary Kuhlman
[email protected]
419-350-6786
567-938-6163
Sisters in Shelter
31 ½ S. Washington Street
Tiffin, Ohio 44883
