Meg's update: Trafficking of Women: 6-8-2011

Marymount Manhattan College offered an evening of reflection and dialogue on the continued form of Modern Slavery: trafficking of women and children, at home and abroad. The keynote speaker was Sr. Eugenia Bonetti, a Consolata Missionary sister, founder and director of the anti-trafficking office of the (USMI). She inspired the focus on trafficking abuses for thousands of nuns throughout the world; in Italy, some 250 religious continue to serve through welcoming centers, offering holistic programs of self-worth, promoting the dignity of one's person despite the travesty suffered at the hands of brutal men. It is estimated that some 2,700,000 thousand are trafficked yearly, 80% of whom are women and children. The trade routes expand globally, with millions of dollars pocketed by global networks. Her passionate call for pro-active engagement to end this horrific violation against innocent youth was a committment promised by her audience. Other speakers included representatives from ECPAT, Equality Now, and Sanctuary for Families; all spoke of programs being offered on protective legislation, advocacy for just policies, and shelters that provide needed rehabilitation.