The purpose of the conference was to facilitate discussion between policy makers, government officials, philanthropists, faith-based and service providers as well as a variety of the country’s leading experts on the subject of Human Trafficking. Jay Hein, Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of Faith-based and Community Initiatives, led the proceedings by presenting the US government’s position on the issue of Human Trafficking. Also on hand was Ambassador Mark Logan from the US Department of State. Among the topics presented were stories of success in rescuing sex slaves and indentured servants by Gary Haugen, President and CEO of International Justice Mission, Dr. Beth Grant, FAAST curriculum project leader and Co-Founder of Project Rescue Eurasia and Katherine Chon, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Polaris Project. One of the day’s most moving presentations was by 15 year old, Zach Hunter, Teen Abolitionist and Founder of Loose Change to Loosen Chains. With his second book due out in early 2008, he’s proof of what a powerful source of positive change young people can be. Kenneth B. Morris, Jr., President, Frederick Douglass Family Foundation and Robert J. Benz, Executive Vice President, were invited to attend the event. Mr. Benz noted that, “The issue of Modern-day Slavery and Human Trafficking has barely reached the American consciousness and, yet, it truly is a human rights crisis that affects every country in the world. Events such as these will allow organizations who are working to end slavery once and for all to better coordinate their efforts and resources.” The legacies of both William Wilberforce and Frederick Douglass were evoked repeatedly during the day with Jay Hein giving special recognition to Ken Morris; great-great-great grandson of Frederick Douglass and great-great grandson of Booker T. Washington. |
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