Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Every year, hundreds of thousands of youths are trafficked across the country, with Orlando ranking third per capita in the nation for reported human trafficking cases. In response to this growing issue, the Ministries of Holy Family Parish have partnered with the Diocese of Orlando Human Trafficking Task Force to host their second Human Trafficking Symposium on September 14.

The event, titled “Shields Up: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Children from Human Trafficking,” aims to raise awareness among youth and adults aged 13 and older about human trafficking occurring in their communities. Both labor and sex trafficking are pervasive problems that affect cities nationwide.

Sex trafficking affects individuals regardless of race, gender, or economic status and is one of the fastest-growing criminal industries. In 2019, 62% of U.S. trafficking victims were sex trafficked.

The symposium will begin with Mass at 8:30 a.m., followed by sessions from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Holy Family Parish, located at 5125 S. Apopka Vineland Road. The event is open to residents from Greater Orlando and surrounding areas.

Speakers will discuss how to recognize warning signs and indicators of human trafficking, barriers to seeking help, online and media influences, and available resources for reporting and combating human trafficking. A survivor of human trafficking will share their story alongside local and federal law enforcement officials. Additionally, youth attendees can participate in a hands-on workshop focused on internet safety.

Attendees are encouraged to bring items for survival backpacks intended for human trafficking victims. Sexual exploitation and labor trafficking constitute a $150 billion global market and a $31 billion industry within the United States alone. Girls aged 12-14 and boys aged 11-13 are often targeted through the internet, social media platforms, malls, and other community locations.

Awareness is crucial for identifying and reporting this underreported crime often referred to as "modern slavery."

The event is free to attend. Registration can be completed via an online link that also accepts financial donations and provides a list of needed backpack items for survivors. For further information or support inquiries, contact branchhforlando@gmail.com.

Staff Report