Human Trafficking

Calgary churches hear the cry for justice for victims of human trafficking, but are we doing more harm than good?

Just behind the sale of arms, the avails from human trafficking is the most lucrative illegal market in existence. Most reports peg the number of victims caught in some form of 'modern day slavery' at around 27 million people, perhaps over 1 million children sexually exploited, and an alarming number in forced labour situations around the globe.

Canada is not immune. In fact, it seems the majority of trafficked victims are trafficked domestically between provinces. Alberta is unique because of the number of temporary foreign workers in the province. By sheer number the incidence for labor exploitation are higher here than most provinces.

Then there's Calgary. Following a research report, the first of its kind in Canada for a metropolitan center, we're starting to get a better glimpse of the problem in our city. We don't have precise numbers, but we know with certainty human trafficking exists in our city.

It is the very nature of the church to catalyze and be among the leaders within the movement against human trafficking in our city.

To make this dream happen we not only need to educate ourselves about a very acute local problem, but we pursue collaboration in response as well.

Local churches are starting to realize the need to do something. Calgary Church wants to offer focus to this response.

How are we doing this?

Calgary Church is developing a local protocol for churches. We are unrolling strategies to build the capacity of participating churches increasing our collective power to be part of an effective solution against human trafficking.

Some items included in the protocol:

• Human Trafficking 101: Introductory session exploring a global crime with particular focus on our local context.
• Capacity Building for Faith Communities: Understanding the local problems of human trafficking and exploring how your church can be a participant in a holistic response.
• Protocol Development: Be a part of the overall development of building or creating solutions for the acute and long terms needs connected with human trafficking.

Our protocol development has begun to take shape and we'd like to include interest communities. This is only the start of an unfolding idea. Please get in touch with interest in our initiative and to let us know of upcoming events.

Human trafficking info session inquiry.

Photo credit to Mythoto.