When I first heard about human trafficking my heart was wrecked, but I didn't know what to do with those feelings or how to get started with making an impact. I really didn't know a lot about human trafficking so I began by educating myself. I would read just about anything I could on the topic so I could understand it better. I wanted to know things like: what causes it, what puts someone at risk, who is at risk, where is it happening, and how does someone overcome this happening to them. As I read, I often wished there was someone I could talk to about what I was reading. Someone who could help me process some of the feelings I had as I increased my knowledge of what was going on.
Our quarterly book club was birthed out of this desire to connect with others who were passionate about the fight against human trafficking.
Angelina Grimke was one of the first women abolitionists.
In her Appeal to Christian Women of the South she wrote:If you really suppose you can do nothing to overthrow slavery, you are greatly mistaken. You can do much in every way: four things I will name.
1st. You can read on this subject.
2d. You can pray over this subject.
3d. You can speak on this subject.
4th. You can act on this subject.
I have not placed reading before praying because I regard it more important, but because, in order to pray aright, we must understand what we are praying for;
A great stepping stone to making an impact is to first understand what it is you are facing. The organization Truckers Against Trafficking, which is making a huge impact, began after the founder, Kendis Paris, read a book that moved her to action. I encourage you to click the link and check out their impressive impact statistics.
Each quarter our team hosts a book discussion on a book about human trafficking. We read the book on our own prior to the discussion date and then we gather to discuss it. I have really enjoyed this time of fellowship. It has been a great time to ask questions, to gain a different perspective, and just be with others who understand how you feel.
If you are looking for a way to get involved in the fight against human trafficking hosting or joining a book club is a great way to start. It doesn't need to be a large group - just a few people who are wanting to learn more.
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month so it's great time to learn more about this issue. Knowledge is the doorway to action and you never know what God will do once your heart has been stirred. Just ask Kendis.
If you're looking for a good book on the subject check out this list: Suggested Books.
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