She was only twelve years old. Only twelve years old when she was taken into a room all alone. A room where the only light she received was from a buzzing florescent bulb, dangling in front of her face, for 3 straight days. She swore she couldn’t breath. It was as if the weight of the world was on her chest but in all reality it was the weight of a man much older than her. She was brittle, it was only a matter of time before she would break. That is all she wanted was a break. Captured, enslaved, taken. She was only twelve years old when she forced into sex slavery.
“The action or practice of illegally transporting people from one country or area to another, typically for the purposes of forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation.”
This is the definition of human trafficking.
Human trafficking is slavery and it is happening today. According to the U.S. State Department, 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked across international borders every year, of which 80% are female and half are children. This is a situation in which they never had a choice, let alone a voice. This September I will have the privilege to help in Southeast Asia, one of the top places in the nation, where human trafficking takes place. Thailand and Cambodia are known for their ancient ruins and breathtaking beaches. However, the horrific reality is that these places are also filled with enslaved people of all ages. Thailand is a major source, transit hub, and destination country for human trafficking into the sex industry. I want to be able to help supply a second chance for these women and children. By you helping support my 9 month mission trip, you will be given a child a chance at freedom. Let’s be the voice for those who do not have a choice.