Since I have announced that I feel led to help those around the world who are suffering; particularly those who are or have been trafficked into modern-day slavery, there has been one startling yet, recurring statement by many: “What an exciting opportunity! You’ll have so much fun.” I have been completely floored by this type of response. Fun? Really? Yes, of course, there will be times of laughter and days of rest and exploration, but FUN is not how I would describe combating slavery! In fact, it is the last word I would use to describe it. It will be heart-wrenching, and tear-jerking, and I’m sure there will be points in which my blood in boiling at what my eyes behold. Knowing that slavery still exists in our modern and civil cultures, terms I use loosely, is infuriating. It’s time that those who are free speak up, stand out, and take action do so with great tenacity and conviction of the heart. Human trafficking will not go away by itself. Victims do not have a voice because many of them are continually drugged so they are confused and more easily controlled.
So what’s the plan to help those who are unseen and unheard? Faces for 5:16, is organizing three fund-raisers in Astoria, OR to help raise funds to get volunteers where they can be used more effectively to help victims and to support agencies fighting for and supporting victims who have been rescued. An art show, a 5k walk/run, and an awareness dinner has little in common until they are joined together to see that “injustice shuts it’s mouth”. Check out Faces for 5:16 on Facebook and check back for more blog updates!
This journey to see human trafficking stopped has just begun for this girl!
