Human Trafficking Awareness

Theresa Flores addresses AU students (photo: Matt Erickson)

The Religion Department, in collaboration with Ashland Center for Non-violence and other groups, welcomed more than 200 students, faculty, and guests to the “Stop Human Trafficking” event held Monday evening in upper convo.

Theresa Flores of Save Our Adolescents from Prostitution (S.O.A.P.)  and Jen Albert, survivors of trafficking, told their stories and presented information about trafficking in the U.S.

Attendees heard how trafficking is not a problem only in far off lands—it’s happening right here. The State of Ohio has the 5^th highest rate of trafficking in the U.S. and the average age of those trafficked is 13. You can read Theresa's story in the Collegian article.

There are upcoming opportunities to get involved in this important campaign to stop human trafficking: 

• You can join the AU Human Trafficking Awareness Group (HTAG).Its next meeting is on Tuesday, February 9 in the Rinehart Center for Religious Studies Rm 13 at 3:30 P.M. (for more info contact Dr. Sue Dickson, 419 207-5561)
• Come to the HTAG's training on Monday, February 1 at 7:00- 8:30 on the AU campus to receive a PowerPoint presentation and a 45-minute script to present to groups: your youth group, your High School, your Jr. High School, your Sunday School—or any other organizations with which you have contact.