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On Feb. 23, The Salvation Army Social Justice Department joined millions around the world in drawing a red “X” on their hands as part of the End It Movement’s Shine a Light on Slavery Day to symbolize their commitment to end human trafficking.
This marks the fifth year of Shine a Light on Slavery Day, but the first The Salvation Army has participated as a partner to the End It Movement. It’s the third year overall that The Salvation Army has participated.
“The Salvation Army realizes the importance of partnership and the bigger effects of working alongside amazing organizations like those a part of the End It Movement,” said Priscilla Santos, Territorial Anti-Trafficking Initiatives Coordinator. “We are also hoping to raise awareness of The Salvation Army’s effort to fight this injustice and empower survivors of trafficking in our programs here in the Western Territory, nationally and internationally.”
Celebrities, lawmakers, and the general public were all invited to participate in the campaign to spark conversations about the 20 million people in 167 countries trapped in slavery, according to the End It Movement. Women and children make up 55 percent of trafficking victims.
By partnering with lawmakers and multiple like-minded organizations such as The Salvation Army, the End It Movement supports efforts in awareness, prevention, rescue and restoration.
“If you have breath, you can help fight human trafficking,” Santos said. “We encourage everyone to do their part and get educated on how it’s happening. [People can] attend trainings, volunteer at a local program, join a local human trafficking task force, and spark a conversation with their family and friends.”
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