Two weeks from today, all eyes will be on Tampa as we host 2009’s Superbowl. As for me? I’ll be staying home that weekend to avoid the mass of traffic that will invade the already-crowded highways. But while I’ll be avoiding traffic, Housemate is getting out to STOP the traffic – human trafficking that is.
Housemate and the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking know that this event brings many tourists looking for entertainment, nightlife and amusement. They have made it their mission to ensure that those participating in the entertainment of the big weekend are there of their own free will. The Coalition will be taking the word to the streets. Literally! Volunteers are spending the Friday and Saturday afternoons before the Superbowl walking some the busiest streets in downtown Tampa educating hotel employees and business owners how to recognize victims of slavery and human trafficking. The Coalition and its volunteers will give these businesses signs and clues to look for, questions to ask potential victims, and a tip line to call and report any victims they encounter. It’s their way of letting the traffickers and slave owners know that Tampa will not stand for slavery.
Housemate put together a great little video that she used at a recent event. Please take a moment to watch the video, and then pray over the next 2 weeks. Pray for the volunteers and that their message will be heard, that any potential trafficking may be stopped, and that current victims may be rescued.
Your Dad and I were not aware of this problem til we borrowed & watched the dvd “Amazing Grace” from the library. They have a long detailed portion on the dvd where a young man talks to people about human trafficing. It was very informative and well done. They also have Chris Tomlin singing the new version of “Amazing Grace”.