Lighthouse Fellowship Church held a panel discussion that gathered local experts to shed some light on the ongoing efforts to combat trafficking and to support survivors. The event Feb. Human trafficking is defined by federal law as the use of force, fraud or coercion to exploit individuals for labor or sex. Amanda Pettit was the keynote speaker for the event.
She is a representative from Rescue Hill, an organization focused on empowering survivors of sex trafficking. Petitt spoke about how this issue hits close to home. A key focus of the event was on locals collaborating with each other to identify, rescue and support victims of human trafficking. Among the panelists was Cmdr. Kevin Turner, who spoke about the circumstances of how people get pulled into trafficking which could then lead to people being forced into commercial sex work.
Even kids may be coerced into trafficking by other kids through deception or threats, such as violence against loved ones. Among the organizations represented at the panel was Unbound Now, which operates in Texas, Louisiana and internationally. Make sure that you understand not only what's going on in that other child's life, but also in the family of that other child. While trafficking has been a concern, the rise of technology has made it easier for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals.
Turner and other panelists discussed the dangers of online platforms, where traffickers often prey on young people. This highlights the growing need for awareness and education kids need in this digital age. Turner pointed out the strides Texas is making in terms of combating this horrific issue. All the panelists urged the audience to take action in their own communities. From supporting organizations that provide resources for survivors to having difficult but necessary conversations with children about online safety, there are many ways to get involved.
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