Everywhere I turn

Everywhere I turn, I encounter a conversation about human trafficking or exploitation! People are becoming aware and they want to do something. 

-          Here I was asked to go to Argentina (Oct 12-22^nd) to train the leaders in NIKO 2 and managed a meeting with a couple of YWAMers that want to address Human Trafficking in Mendoza & area. One of them has 20 years’ experience with children’s homes and children’s services. We had a very productive discussion about what YWAM can do there with prevention and recognition of vulnerable people among the young in the community and “in the system”. They are starting with a few initiatives but hold some great promise of making a difference. I also spoke to the staff and students raising their understanding of the issue in South America and Argentina. Then I stumble upon a community health worker who visits vulnerable people in the native community where we were working. He is actually aware of trafficking issues and given regular information. Surprising as he is way in the desert! I did encourage him about how preventative their role is. He plans on speaking to the overseer of the department!

-          The Justice Lab (Oct 28-30th) was a gathering of justice oriented leaders who have a focus on combating human trafficking in Canada. Together with IJM (International Justice Mission), Youth For Christ, pastors (street level) in the Vancouver and Toronto areas, and eleven young people from across the nation, I believe the fruit of the gathering will spark regional/local action of young people to know more; live better; and rally others to address the demand of a society for modern day slavery. Stay tuned. So much of this work is about networking!

-          On November 7^th there will be an inter-agency province wide symposium on “Human Trafficking: Towards Preparedness and Response in Nova Scotia” and we (Our East Coast based leadership team in Halifax) will be participating. Our prayer is that the time would be productive for partnership, good plans, and clarity of purpose. 

 -          She Has A Name is a production that highlights the plight of victims of trafficking. Plans are underway for a nation-wide tour. The hope of a tour is that thousands more would engage in the story of human trafficking in a meaningful way. The play was a success in Red Deer and Calgary last spring and allowed for a conference on Human Trafficking. The hope is that local community leaders will continue their discussions about a city wide plan. The writer of the play is a friend and we talk often about the role of the Arts and raising awareness.

-     In January, I was asked to speak at a children's conference in India. Last year, we had over 3,000 young people and leaders there.  I said, "I would like us to focus on a 'SAFE kids' approach as over 30% of kids are experiencing abuse and are vulnerable to exploitation through human trafficking and prostitution. They agreed...