The Ecumenical Conference on Human Trafficking brought together a host of panel speakers from several religious persuasions; each speakers shared from her experience and research the horrific efforts of this modern form of slavery. Ms. Virginia Nesmith, Executive Director from the National Farm Workers highlighted forms of trafficking effecting migrant workers crossing borders into our country seen in physical violence, cruel treatment at work, and importantly having wages withheld, and finally being deported. Helen Hays, researcher and scholar from the Good Shepherd Congregation shared poignant stories told her by her Sisters working in Asia, Africa, and America. The audience was in awe as she related the multiple ways her sisters in the field were serving women and children victims, and the many encouraging signs seen through their programs of women and young girls being healed in body and spirit. Another outstanding women that spoke was a survivor of sexual assault from childhood, Ms. Rani Hong, from India.
She is now, with her husband, a vigorous activist against the crime of human trafficking.
Another attraction of the three day program was a field trip to social centers serving women and youth who have been victims. I went to Covenant House and learned of their Hot Line, 24hr
service. On display, among many materials from ecumenical groups, was Maryknoll's DVD,
"Lives for Sale". I received ten orders for the same, and have sent them out as requested.
One woman I spoke to wanted to subscribe to the Maryknoll Magazine; I gave that name to our people across the street. This Ecumenical Conference was rich in many ways, and fine contacts have been made for collaboration in the future.
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