Today is July 30th, and it is time to RISE UP for World Human Trafficking Awareness Day.
“Speak your mind even if your voice shakes”
Along with “be your own girl,” this was another one of the quotes my momma used to tell me growing up.
You may or may not have noticed that my content has been a bit dry lately- the captions have been short, my stories have been simple parts of my day, I have not shared a silly meme in a while. Honestly, I feel I have been in a bit of a slump when it comes to content creation. I have been spending a great deal of time educating myself, practicing self-care, and being present. Personally, I feel there are way too many people “cancelling” and judging. As I have mentioned, I am a style and adventure blogger and I am not here to tell you what to do or how to cope with all that’s going on in the world right now.
I express gratitude daily for the platform I have on here, and the voice I get to share with the world; however, lately I have not been taking advantage of it. I realize that it is important that I speak what’s on my mind… even if my voice shakes… even if I get backlash from people who dislike me.
It’s World Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Let’s talk about it. I will admit it, I had no idea how big of an issue this is until very recently. As someone who has travelled alone and is a frequent user of social networks, I can say that I have felt incredibly vulnerable while learning new information.
Here are 3 easy ways to get involved:
- Wear blue.
- Text HELPTHEM to 51555.
- Raise awareness on your social media platforms. (#endtrafficking #freedomfirst)
Here are 20 actions to fight human trafficking in 2020: https://www.state.gov/20-ways-you-can-help-fight-human-trafficking/
The National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
To further your education, visit https://ourrescue.org or https://childrescuecoalition.org.
Tips to Avoid being Victims of Human Trafficking (from humantrafficking.co.za)
- Do not post personal information online publicly or in real time.
- Go through your followers and remove/block accounts.
- Ensure your phone is charged and has service.
- Save important numbers on speed dial.
- Always tell someone where you are going.
- Trust your gut.
- Once posted, always posted.
Tips for Children:
- Do not have personalized items where anyone can see it. If a stranger comes across a child, and can recite his/her name, the child is more likely to trust them.
- Use a “code” word system.
- Stay with them to public restrooms.
Some infographics to share if you’d like:
Becsea 