By Rosemary Lewallen
Bridge of Light: Human Trafficking to Human Triumph Ministry will be hosting Catholic Relief Services’ “Turn on the Light” Solidarity Walk for Victims of Human Trafficking on Friday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. in St. Irenaeus Parish Hall, 5201 Evergreen Ave., Cypress, CA 90630.
Accordingly, Feb. 8 is the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking as well as the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of human trafficking victims. St. Josephine was kidnapped and sold into slavery at age seven, causing her terrible suffering.
Everyone is welcome to join together as a sign of solidarity in support of those affected by this horrendous crime.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal enterprise in the world and a global industry estimated at $150 billion a year. This modern-day slavery exploits our most vulnerable populations, including young women, girls, refugees and those who live in poverty. Organized criminal organizations have expanded beyond drug and gun sales to selling human beings.
Let us be the light that shines in the darkness so that victims hidden in plain sight will be seen, the root causes of human trafficking will be revealed and the exploitation of laborers will be exposed.
Dress warmly because the Solidarity Walk Prayer Vigil will begin in the Parish Hall and then all will proceed outside before returning to the Hall, where letters to Congressmen will be prepared. There is no charge for this event. If you have any questions, please contact Monica Kovach at 310-490-6113.
