OHSWEKEN — Six Nations Elected Council took steps to declare February 22, 2019 as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day at Six Nations of the Grand River.
The motion to approve the declaration was passed at Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting.
The declaration says that during National Human Trafficking Awareness Day and throughout the remainder of 2019 that Six Nations of the Grand river will “recognize victims and survivors of human trafficking and … will remain committed to addressing and advancing survivors of human trafficking issues.”
Human sex trafficking is a crime and human rights abuse, according to information from the province of Ontario.
Those at risk include youth as young as 12 years old and vulnerable persons including those experiencing poverty, abuse, isolation or other social or family issues.
Women and girls are typically victimized, however boys, men and LGBTQ persons are also targeted.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger or suspect that a child under 18 is being trafficked, officials say you should call 911 or your local police service. There is also a confidential Human Trafficking Helpline in Ontario toll-free at 1-833-999-9211.
