The Conference Focused on Raising Awareness and Effective Strategies to Combat Human Trafficking - March 24, 2012

It takes a nation to stop this terrible crime. Changing laws is only one piece of a national action plan to end trafficking and exploitation of women and children.- Joy Smith

A group of over 200 participants attended the IBVM sponsored “Breaking the Chains” conference on Human Trafficking held at Brennan Hall, University of St. Michael’s College on Saturday March 24th, 2012. Our keynote speaker MP Joy Smith emphasized that everyone has a part to play in ending this terrible crime. “We all need to step up and join the circle of heroes” said Smith. We’re becoming more aware of the scope and horrific reality of this crime in Canada today. Over the past few years it has become a fast growing and lucrative criminal enterprise here in Canada and abroad. Globally it is estimated that between 800,000 - 2,000,000 women and children are trafficked and sold as sex slaves each year. Illegal profits from trafficking of human beings is now estimated to amount to $ 32 billion annually.

We heard that a number of organized crime and family based networks recruit girls to trafficking in Canada. Marginalized women and girls are more at risk of being abducted or inducted. This includes girls and young women who have been previously sexually exploited, homeless youth and children in the child welfare system. Aboriginal women and girls are tragically overrepresented among the victims. Joy spoke to the importance of raising awareness about the horrific realities of Human Trafficking for the sex trade at all levels of our society. Joy shared that she become a passionate activist for this cause because of her on the ground experience with the victims.

Evanne Hunter IBVM Provincial Leader, Opening Address