What is a human life worth? How much does a child cost?
Almost half of all victims of trafficking are children. In India a child costs less than a head of cattle. Children die every day for many causes but when did they become a dispensable and worthless commodity? When did it become acceptable for a child to be sold as a sex slave at 3 years old? or as a gold miner in the desert at 4? Barely potty trained and these children are bought and sold every day in our world.
What can we do about this?
First, pray – pray – pray! There is a wonderful guide available at the Salvation Army’s site.
Second, learn more and become active in educating your church and community!
Third, demand more from your church and denomination in response to these atrocities.
What has the BGCT done in response to this issue?
2006
Resolution condemning Human Trafficking:
Whereas human trafficking has become a contemporary form of slavery, subjecting men, women, and children to sexual exploitation and forced labor; and
Whereas the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that approximately 600,000-800,000 persons annually are trafficked across international borders worldwide; and
Whereas it is estimated by the U.S. Department of State that more than half of these victims are children; and
Whereas according to Texas law enforcement agencies, our state is a major conduit for trafficked persons; and
Whereas the Bible calls us to do justice and to love kindness in the face of injustice and cruelty (Micah 6:8):
Therefore be it resolved that messengers to the annual meeting of the Baptist General Convention of Texas in Dallas, November 13-14, 2006 become more informed about the tragedy of human trafficking; and
Be it finally resolved that we lend our support to appropriate agencies for the prevention of human trafficking, the protection of victims, and the prosecution of perpetrators.
2007
“Ethics without Borders” (.pdf) Christian Life Commission Statewide Conference:
“ASHA Forum” Participant in national faith-based forum at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA
The first-ever Asha Forum Consultation in North America is designed to inform, equip, and empower students, professors, church leaders, childcare providers, and others who minister to children who have been sexually exploited or trafficked.
Participants learned about a broad range of issues involved in caring for the sexually abused child, including psychological, spiritual, legal, and economic issues, along with factors that increase demand for sexual exploitation and trafficking, such as pornography, sexual addiction, and sex tourism.
2008
North American Association of Christians in Social Work – national conference, presentation on our efforts:
South Texas College – Forum, presentation on our resolution and response
Global Women, presentation on our resolution and response
Several BGCT churches have hosted presentations on the topic
Baylor University School of Social Work, Professor Kim Kotrla has held a half day seminar on Human Trafficking with a panel of practioners involved as well as the schools work with the Ruth Project in Waco.
We value your input and suggestions.
Your comments and recommended resources are welcome in the comments box below.
“What has the BGCT done in reponse to this issue?
The BGCT has responded in several ways, from forming a resolution condemning human trafficking to holding conferences to raise awareness on the subject”
… Is that all you got?