Could you imagine being lured in by a stranger and kidnapped from your family? How about your "first time" being to a group of strangers who intend on beating and raping you into submission? The unfortunate reality is that this happens every single day. Human trafficking is split up into two categories: sexual labor, and physical labor. Roughly 80% of trafficking involves sexual exploitation, so this article will be focusing on that. In the United States there are about 14,500 victims yearly, with many more cases going unreported. If you see or suspect human trafficking call 1-888-3737-888. If reading this made you sick and angry, you'll already have something in common with three courageous students from a small town in Ohio.
Kaleigh, Bre, and Zach had no idea that when they started, their advocacy would make it to a national level. Nine months ago, they all took an 8 week long course about human trafficking that allowed them to meet former victims of trafficking, law enforcement officers who were combating the problem, and the leaders who started outreach programs in other communities. Inspired by this course, they made it their mission to educate their local community and put an stop to human trafficking.
To further their mission, Kaleigh, Bre, and Zach first partnered with Sisters in Shelter, a local organization that combats human trafficking. Sisters in Shelter coordinated the educational course and runs a safe haven for victims. Secondly, they partnered with Heidelberg University during their Human Trafficking Awareness Week. These partnerships created strong ties to the local community and good opportunities to branch out.
The trio spent weeks working on creating a powerful speech to deliver at local events, and on top of that, they spent hours cutting and folding a thousand paper fortune tellers containing facts about human trafficking. Upon perfecting their speech and visuals, they visited local basketball games on the high school and collegiate level to provide an informative half-time show. In our small town, they educated 1,533 community members. For Kaleigh, Bre and Zach this wasn't enough, so they decided to work harder and reach farther. They entered the SkillsUSA Heath Careers Pathway Showcase. This competition would allow them to present at state level, and upon winning, at nationals.
With their dedication and commitment, they placed gold at state and were headed to Nationals. On June 23, 2016 they set up their own display, as pictured above, and presented to a panel of judges. Out of 14 other Heath Career Showcases they placed 5th. Although they were disappointed with this outcome Bre commented, "Not placing at nationals was sad, but being a voice for the victims of human trafficking is something I'll never forget."
Kaleigh, Bre, and Zach's journey to nationals was one of determination and love. Their story goes to show that with passion anyone can reach out, make an impact, and be an advocate for those without a voice. Their hope is to see a world without human trafficking in the near future. Sandy Reinhart, their mentor and former teacher, would like to pressure everyone to "Step Up and Stand Out". Anyone can make a difference, you just have the find the courage to be that person.
Again, if you see or suspect human trafficking, call 1-888-3737-888.
