With sex trafficking on the rise, forum will raise awareness in Burlington, Milton, Oakville

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Published January 26, 2024 at 10:13 am

Survivors of sex trafficking will take part in an awareness forum on the dangers that exist in Halton Region.

A joint presentation of the Halton District School Board (HDSB), Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) and the Halton Collaborative Against Human Trafficking (HCAHT), the forum is meant to alert the public about sex trafficking and sexual exploitation in our community

“Sex-trafficking crimes are on the rise and Halton is no exception. We believe that education and collaboration are key to addressing and combating sex trafficking in our community,” said Jennifer Fowler, Superintendent of Education with responsibility for Safe Schools for the Halton District School Board. “By working together we hope to raise awareness and take meaningful action to facilitate early and appropriate intervention.”

The session will uncover the realities of sex trafficking and exploitation and provide insight into who is at risk, digital and cyber security considerations, warning signs and how to keep our children and youth safe.

Attendees will be able to hear from and connect with representatives from local organizations SAVIS of Halton and EFRY Hope and Help for Women. The event will also be attended by survivors of sex trafficking and their families, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the direct effects sex trafficking has on the individual and their community.

The information session is open to all members of the Halton community, and child minding will be provided at no cost for children aged four and above. Those interested in attending can register online.

“By raising awareness and understanding of sex trafficking, we empower our students, educators, and families with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and respond to the warning signs,” said Anthony Cordeiro, Superintendent of Education with responsibility for Safe Schools for the Halton Catholic District School Board. “This information session is a critical step in our ongoing commitment to foster safe school communities.”

The session is on Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Elsie MacGill Secondary School (1410 Bronte St. S, Milton).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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