human trafficking, early rumblings.

Perfect timing and pure providence (and the willingness of K to drive me out to Salvos after bursting into her room and waking her from her slumber) brought me to a workshop yesterday on human trafficking here in Australia - something that happens in our backyards, completely under our noses, though many times so visible. Often, when I hear the words sex/human trafficking, I feel so removed from it as if its something that goes on in 'other parts' of the world, surely not here. and plus, the enormity of the problem is so far-reaching, where do you even begin to process it all?

The statistics are mind-blowing.

• 1.2 million children are trafficked every year
• 95% of victims experience physical or sexual violence during trafficking
• 2.5 million people are in forced labour at any given time as a result of trafficking
• 30 billion dollars from profits worldwide annually

I get lost in all these numbers, but I really loved what one of the ladies i met said... "All that matters is the one.. And working, advocating for, supporting, loving that 'one' is what counts."

I found it helpful learning of the red flags and indicators, and how it requires looking beneath the surface issues, or presenting complaints to identify potential victims (not in far away countries, but even here in Australia). These can include wage disputes, domestic violence, assault & emergency care, attempted suicide, homelessness, those seeking welfare assistance to name a few. All victims held hostage where shackles and chains have now been substituted by debt bondage, threats of deportation, withholding key documents, threats to family members, verbal abuse & humiliation, isolation, physical violence and sexual assault. Sinister modern chains that aim to crush the spirit until their humanity and sense of will are entirely stolen.

found it really useful knowing what services and organizations are out there that aim to support men and women who find themselves as victims in this trade.

• Fair Work Ombudsman.
• The role of the Australian Federal Police, with their Human Trafficking Teams (and other resources found on their website)
• The role of the Red Cross (accessed through AFP), in supporting trafficked people help access emergency accommodation, healthcare & welfare needs, and psychological services
• Project Respect (who specifically support women in the sex industry)
• The Anti-Slavery Project

Definitely hope to chew on these things more. But ever so grateful to God for letting this opportunity pop into my lap. Such a gift to be educated, enlightened, and to meet some incredibly beautiful & inspiring ladies who truly shine Jesus inside out. I think I had the most honest, vulnerable, soul-moving, heart-bonding car-ride talks ever while on my way back home after the workshop. A conversation like a tiny drop of water in the ocean of time, but with lasting heart ripples. Beautiful.

Hope to continue the conversation...