The United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30th July aims to highlight a huge scourge on our world.
Five years ago, when asked if he believed that ignorance contributed to the scourge, human trafficking, Pope Francis had this to say:
“ Certainly there is a lot of ignorance on the topic of trafficking. But sometimes there also seems to be little will to understand the scope of the issue. Why? Because it touches close to our conscience; because it is thorny; because it is shameful.
Then there are those who, even knowing this, do not want to speak because they are at the end of the “supply chain”, as a user of the “services” that are offered on the street or on the Internet…Yes, it takes courage and honesty, when, in our daily lives, we meet or deal with persons who could be victims of human trafficking, or when we are tempted to select items which may well have been produced by exploiting others…..” ( Pope Francis, February 2018)
The theme of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2023 is “Reach every victim of trafficking, Leave no one behind.” In the context of trafficking in persons, leaving people behind means:
– Failing to end the exploitation of trafficking victims,
– Failing to support victim-survivors once they are free from traffickers,
– Leaving people vulnerable to traffickers.
In all corners of the Congregation, Brigidine Sisters, along with colleagues and through leadership and partnerships, seek to ‘leave no one behind’ – firstly by being informed, then through enlightened Action – wherever we are and however we can.
We know that, while illegal in every country, human trafficking and slavery actually occur in every nation on Earth! The advocacy and action networks, with which we are connected, offer regular updates – providing information, enhancing awareness and challenging us to action.
Access these Networks to find up to date news, stories, advocacy suggestions – and be inspired:
Talitha Kum is the umbrella network of Sisters-led networks: Talithakum
Religious in Europe Networking Against Trafficking and Exploitation: RENATE Europe
US Sisters Against Human Trafficking: USCSAHT
‘Stop Trafficking!’ – USCSAHT Newsletter July 23
Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans: ACRATH
ACRATH’s Latest Newsletter: ACRATH Newsletter July 2023
A Table Reflection for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: Table Prayer
NCR Article: Sisters combat human trafficking – National Catholic Reporter July ‘23
