Title
To honor and recognize January 2012 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month
Body
WHEREAS, since the issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation, we have protected our principles of equality and freedom for all. Despite our successes, thousands of individuals living in the United States and still more abroad suffer from the crime of modern slavery; and
WHEREAS, human trafficking endangers the lives of millions of people around the world, and it is a crime that knows no borders. Trafficking networks operate both domestically and internationally; and
WHEREAS, although abuses generally affect women and girls, the victims of this ongoing global crime are men, women, and children of all ages; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that 660 females are trafficked into Ohio annually. These women come from different states or are from different countries. Women are sold into different illegal industries including prostitution and forced servitude; and
WHEREAS, in Columbus there have been multiple confirmed cases of human trafficking. Analysts estimate there are upwards of 10 victims for every identified case of human trafficking; and
WHEREAS, human trafficking and modern slavery are diseases that plague communities across the country. It is an epidemic that has a cure and can be eliminated if we work together as a community; and
WHEREAS, the citizens of Columbus can help end this crime, starting in our own backyard. In collaboration with local law enforcement and the many local advocacy organizations and support systems working to deter and end human trafficking and modern slavery, we can rid our city of this horrific crime; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby honor and recognize January 2012 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month to raise awareness of this crime and of attempts to end human trafficking and slavery in our community and around the world.