The International Labor Organization estimates that there are about 21 million victims of human trafficking globally.
- 68% of them are trapped in forced labor.
26% of them are children.
55% are women and girls.
It is estimated that human trafficking is a $150 billion a year industry worldwide. According to the State Department, trafficking is the world’s fastest growing criminal enterprise.
In 2016, an estimated 1 out of every 6 endangered runaways reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children were likely child sex trafficking victims. Of those, 86% were in the care of social services or foster care when they ran away.
The best way for me to summarize this topic is through the slam poetry of someone else. From the website powerpoetry.org, written by WritelyLynae.
Killing of America's Girl
America, the beautiful.
You have burned your amber waves,
Belonging to young girls who were told they would never be beautiful.
You have locked them up in caves.
How quickly you forget the wars you fought for freedom!
You never give,
Taking instead, to build your kingdom.
Your flag does not cover the naked girl in streetlight.
Her blood red, her tears blue at being sold.
Pure white disappearing into the night,
She is once again told:
Equality will never be her right.
She is only good for your hold.
America, you keep your majesties in chains!
Yes, you are very bold,
Declaring your rights in sweet refrains.
What do you use your money and freedom to do?