The seventh annual Community Freedom Summit took place on September 20, bringing together students, educators, and local residents to address the issue of human trafficking. The event was hosted by Not For Sale: One Step At A Time in partnership with Walsh University.

Walsh University President Tim Collins emphasized the role of education in combating trafficking. “Our students who will rebuild the society of tomorrow are taught by our faculty and staff and understand the grave nature of human trafficking, and our students rightly stand up and act — and they will not be silent,” Collins said.

Kathie Gray, President and Co-Founder of Not For Sale, opened the summit by expressing gratitude to community leaders, Walsh University, and board members for their support. She highlighted the importance of prevention. “Not For Sale is about education, awareness, and prevention,” Gray said. “Today, we are focused on prevention — giving our community the knowledge and tools to recognize risks before harm happens and equipping everyone to act before exploitation can take hold.”

Dr. Tony Talbott from the University of Dayton Human Rights Center delivered the keynote address to an audience of 800 at Cecchini Center Arena. He discussed how economic factors drive human trafficking, noting that reducing demand makes exploitation less profitable. Talbott called on men to play a more active role in prevention efforts since men are often perpetrators while women and children are frequent victims. He encouraged coaches, teachers, and peers to teach young men that buying sex is wrong.

Talbott also suggested several approaches for reducing demand:

- Challenge cultural norms that sexualize children or normalize commercial sex.

- Support stronger state laws aligning with federal regulations against goods produced through forced or child labor.

- Avoid fast fashion brands lacking transparent supply chains; consider secondhand options or inquire about sourcing.

- Advocate for policies that penalize traffickers and buyers rather than victims coerced into exploitation.

Kim Graves, a board member of Not For Sale, stressed individual responsibility in addressing trafficking. “Trafficking is all around us,” Graves said. “Disrupting demand starts with examining our own choices, hearts, and minds, and extends to practical actions every day. By making thoughtful decisions in our families, workplaces, and communities, we can take real steps to stop exploitation.”

Pedro “P.J.” Chavez led a prayer during both the program and a one-mile silent Freedom Walk for participants. He asked attendees to recognize “the dignity in every human life” while praying for healing among victims as well as change among those responsible for exploitation.

A new feature this year was the School Spirit Battle encouraging participation from local middle and high schools; Lake High School received top honors for their involvement.