It’s never easy to talk about, but it’s reality: child trafficking exists.
image via UNICEF
Across America countless children are victims of trafficking. We see them every day and don’t even realize it. They work in restaurants, bars, hotels, and construction sites. They’re exploited as prostitutes, farmhands, and child brides. The hard truth is this: they are bought and sold as slaves.
It’s time for this to stop.
Youth who are homeless or runaways are at greater risk for exploitation and trafficking. For this reason, the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act is set for renewal. Having expired in September, 2013, this legislation will include new measures to increase family intervention and reunification services, as well as provide improved services for youth who have been victims of human trafficking or sexual exploitation.
Our partner UNICEF works to strengthen child protection systems around the world, including preventing trafficking and exploitation. They work with social services, and legal and health professionals to protect children who are separated from their families. Their global efforts in child protection include supporting the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act in the United States.
Will you join us in supporting UNICEF? They are encouraging us all to contact your lawmakers and ask them to cosponsor this bill today.
Take Action Challenge
Now’s the time to take action! You can sign a letter to Congress using this form provided by UNICEF. Your voice is what these children need, you can be the advocate who makes a difference. Ask your lawmakers to cosponsor the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act today.