Human Trafficking Symposium in Orlando Aims to Raise Awareness Among Youth

Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland Website

Each year, hundreds of thousands of youth are trafficked across the country, with Orlando ranking third in reported human trafficking cases per capita. In response to this growing problem, the ministries of Holy Family Parish have partnered with the Diocese of Orlando Human Trafficking Task Force to host their second Human Trafficking Symposium on September 14th.

The event, titled “Shields Up: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Children from Human Trafficking,” aims to raise awareness among youth and adults ages 13 and older about human trafficking in their communities. Both labor and sex trafficking are widespread problems affecting cities across the country.

Sex trafficking affects individuals regardless of race, gender, or economic status and is one of the fastest growing criminal industries. In 2019, 62% of human trafficking victims in the U.S. were victims of sex trafficking.

The symposium begins with a Mass at 8:30 a.m., followed by sessions from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holy Family Parish, located at 5125 S. Apopka Vineland Road. The event is open to residents of Greater Orlando and surrounding areas.

Speakers will discuss how to recognize warning signs and indicators of human trafficking, barriers to seeking help, online and media influences, and available resources for reporting and combating human trafficking. A survivor of human trafficking will share his or her story with local and federal law enforcement officials. In addition, youth can participate in a hands-on workshop focused on internet safety.

Attendees are encouraged to bring supplies for survival backpacks intended for victims of human trafficking. Sexual exploitation and labor trafficking is a $150 billion market globally and a $31 billion industry in the United States alone. Girls ages 12-14 and boys ages 11-13 are often targeted via the internet, social media platforms, shopping malls, and other community locations.

Awareness is crucial to identifying and reporting these crimes often referred to as ‘modern slavery’.

The event is free to attend. Registration can be completed via an online link that also accepts monetary donations and provides a list of needed backpack items for survivors. For more information or support questions, contact [email protected].

Staff report