BA testifies in Trenton against Human Trafficking

Benedictine's Cor Defenders, a Campus Ministry Student Leadership Team, were invited by Mr. Jacob Toporek, Executive Director of the NJ State Association of Jewish Federations, to testify at the introduction of the Human Trafficking Prevention, Treatment and Protection Bill (A 3352) by Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle to the House Committee in Trenton.

The News Room of the Record reports, "She (Assemblywoman Vainieri Huttle) introduced a sweeping new Bill to crack down on Human Trafficking with Superbowl expected to increase problems. The Bergen lawmaker takes aim at exploitation building upon nearly a year's worth of research and consultations with experts and advocates."

Despite concerns voiced about some of the provisions of the bill, the Assembly Committee passed the Human Trafficking Bill.

 As Assemblywoman Huttle explains, "It is Modern Day Slavery. Slavery still exists in the United States, and here in New Jersey. Until recently, human trafficking has remained in the shadows of society. Victims, often children and vulnerable women, are too afraid and dependent on traffickers to break their silence and seek help. Exploited for years, they are coerced into prostitution, labor and drug activity. When they finally have a chance to regain their freedom, they are prosecuted for the crimes they were forced to commit while enslaved, while the real perpetrators remain untouched."

Vanessa and Karol, were joined by nine of their peers to represent the youth and speak out against Human Trafficking. They testified before the House Committee calling for the need of education in the public and private school sectors to warn young people about the dangers of this hideous crime.

Last January, the President of the United States issued a Proclamation stating that raising awareness through education is one of the most effective tools for protecting our young children at risk.

Assemblywoman Vainieri Huttle said she would work proactively with her colleagues to amend the language to meet the concerns of all parties.

SIGN THE PETITION TO HAVE HUMAN TRAFFICKING EDUCATION AS PART OF OUR SCHOOL CURRICULUMS.
http://www.change.org/petitions/u-s-department-of-education-help-teach-kids-about-historical-and-modern-slavery