“Human Trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of people through force, fraud or deception, with the aim of exploiting them for profit. Men, women and children of all ages and from all backgrounds can become victims of this crime, which occurs in every region of the world.” – The United Nations
“People often think human trafficking happens only in 3rd world countries, but it happens right here in our very own state. It is not something out and far away.” Walk for Freedom Coordinator Hannah Hamilton
On Saturday, October 19, citizens of Minot and Minot AFB will take part in the 3rd Annual Walk for Freedom event starting at The Pursuit church at 515 20th Ave SE. Hamilton explained that this event is not exactly a protest and it is not a physical walking race. It is a 2-mile, single file walk through the city of Minot as a group of silent, yet noticeable activists trying to draw attention to this world-wide and city-wide problem. “We do this to shine a light on a global crisis,” said Hamilton.
The event is free for anyone to attend, even children, but participants are asked to register ahead of time online if they plan to walk (A21.org/minot). Before the silent walk commences, there will be a guest speaker, family-friendly activities and instruction on how people can take an active step to prevent and be aware of the human trafficking problem.
The Walk for Freedom is a combined effort between Minot AFB and the city to help the awareness reach a wider audience. Minot AFB POC and Walk for Freedom co-coordinator, Airman First Class Amaris “Mikayla” De Jesus, 91st Missile Security Forces Squadron, explained why this walk is such a big deal. She said, “Human trafficking is hidden from view and rapidly developing. It generates billions annually with the exploitation of countless individuals. People are exploited everywhere in the world, and it could be happening in our city. Our community should be fully aware of how this occurs and what to do if you encounter someone who might be a victim of human trafficking.”
A1C De Jesus participated in the Walk for Freedom last year and was immediately struck by its powerful message and awareness campaign. She knew she wanted to get working on a similar type of event for on-base residents. While the original goal was to have the walk on base, it worked out smoother for it to be held off base again. When asked what she hopes to be the outcome of this event, A1C De Jesus put it this way: “My hope is that each person who attends, will become educated and equipped with the skills to help someone, in the event that it becomes necessary. I encourage all service members and their families to participate in this walk and to understand that they can make a difference.”
The base and the community have come together to make the Walk for Freedom come together. Support this cause by walking at the event, or making a monetary donation to the A21 organization, who specialize in reaching, recovering and restoring the lives of those affected by human trafficking.
*If you or someone else suspects human trafficking please report it. https://www.a21.org/content/report-now/grbqhs
