Calling All Modern-Day Abolitionists

By Julie Nauman, VCGCB Executive Officer

Humans are being bought and sold for labor and sex all over our world, country and here in California.

In the last decade, many organizations, agencies and government groups have formed to combat this dreadful crime. However, with continued challenges of globalization and the use of technology, the fight against one of the world’s most profitable criminal enterprises is not yet over.

California is home to three of the thirteen FBI-identified high-intensity child sex trafficking regions in the nation. The Victims of Trafficking Division of WEAVE, a Northern California based advocacy and crisis center for women and men, confirms the realities I wish were not true: “The survivors we work with are reporting initial trafficking victimization between 12 and 14 years old. It is disheartening.”

Our work to ensure the rights of human trafficking victims, prevent future violence, and reach all victims has never been more challenging. Now more than ever, collaboration is the pathway to success. Our collective energy, skill, and commitment will lead the way to realizing freedom.

Today in recognition of Human Trafficking Awareness Day, will you resolve to join me in this fight? Anti-trafficking organizations have many needs, affording us numerous ways to get involved:

• Volunteer your time and skills at a nonprofit or agency. Organizations in every county need assistance with public relations, training, office work, graphic art, fundraising and awareness, and outreach efforts.
• Donate care package items such as backpacks, sweats, underclothing, journals, shampoo, and bus passes. Most agencies need help meeting the basic needs of trafficking survivors.
• Donate money to help fund a local anti-trafficking program.

There is a long way to go until all of California experiences freedom, but if we each play our part, we can end this battle.

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Julie Nauman is the Executive Officer for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB). VCGCB provides compensation for victims of violent crime and helps to resolve claims against the State.