MHS students learn about human trafficking

Marlin High School students will learn how to fight human trafficking when area Rotarians host the Global Connections International (GCI) Human Trafficking Trailer at Marlin High School on February 8.

Human trafficking— essentially the buying and selling of human beings – is the fastest growing illegal enterprise in the world generating more than $152 billion per year ($9.8 billion in the U.S.).

 “There are more than 40 million human trafficking victims worldwide with approximately two million in the United States, Global Connections International President and CEO Jim Weber said. “Approximately 500,000 children are sold for sex repeatedly each year in the U.S. with 12-14 year olds being a largely targeted group.”

 “Whether we realize it or not, human slavery exists in every community in Central Texas,” Rotary District 5870 Governor Beverly Luedke said.  “Whether it is adult labor or youth sex trafficking, I cannot think of a better group to carry the banner to fight this human injustice than Rotarians. We in District 5870 can and will make a difference.”

Weber implores people to talk with each other to educate and empower in the fight to end human trafficking within their own communities. Public events and the mobile education experience are designed to raise awareness and offer tools for prevention to everyday people.

“We want to encourage everyday people to get involved in this fight within your own communities and we’re currently helping protect America’s families by exposing millions of everyday people to the signs of human trafficking here in the U.S.,” Weber said.