DAY 24 - 24 hours in her shoes

"The people that are in no way affected by my actions are the ones judging. All I am asking is that you try walking a day in my heels! Then say what you want."  Darla, a teen survivor of sex trafficking

Read more of Darla's story HERE.

Are we showing compassion toward those that walk a life of prostitution or are we judging them?  Is prostitution a choice?  I don't think anyone grows up with a dream to work on the streets and sell her body for money.  Read this article about child prostitution and let me know what you think.  You can show compassion by sending a postcard by the end of February to a victim of trafficking.

The commercial sexual exploitation of children (and prostitution of a child) is a form of human trafficking under U.S. federal law, but MANY STATES still DO NOT offer legal protections for minor victims, appropriate penalties to curb demand, or services to care for these severely victimized children.  In many cases, these victims are treated as criminals or delinquents, resulting in significant additional harm.  Check out Polaris Project's website to see guidelines for drafting bills. 

What kinds of laws does your state have in regards to human trafficking?  Polaris Project has compiled model legislation to assist advocates and policy makers in developing laws to combat human trafficking. These guidelines and laws are good examples of what to consider when working on policy and may be adapted to fit the specific needs of your state.  Will you be an advocate for children like Darla? 

DAY 23 - Kiara's Story

"Kiara’s stepfather cut her with a knife and burned her with cigarettes, leaving several permanent scars. Kiara was especially frightened by her stepfather because of his associations with violent pimps, who controlled some of the women she saw in the hotels."  To read more click here.





Here is a list of 23 NEEDS for victims like Kiara who are rescued from human trafficking.  "When victims escape their traffickers, they often come to us without personal possessions or resources of their own. Polaris Project provides clients with the basic necessities to start a new life."  How can you help Kiara?


Those at Polaris Project believe this:  "Raising awareness about the issue of human trafficking is a crucial first step."  I believe this too.  Start TODAY.  What can you do TODAY to raise awareness?  One thing you can do is share this blog with one person and then them to share it with another person.

Now that you know about trafficking you can do something about it RIGHT NOW. You have the power to make a direct impact on the lives of victims and survivors.  What can you do?

Check out Polaris Project's act now section for online actions you can take to help fight human trafficking. Visit the advocate section for policy alerts on the state and federal level.
Get connected to our online community
Volunteer.
Fundraise.
Attend an event.
Report human trafficking.