Jessica and I went to the Global Forum on Human Trafficking in Carlsbad. It was an amazing event – full of information that was both amazing and disturbing. The fact that we even had a forum on this topic was somewhat discouraging and reminded me, once again, about the evil that lives in this world.
The forum was hosted by North Coast Calvary. Our friend, Derek DaPena is the High School pastor at that church. It was great to connect with him again and to spend some time with him during the forum. We even had the opportunity to grab some lunch at a local restaurant. He brought his son, Kasen, with him. Talk about energy and passion for life! It was awesome!
The event was kicked off by Luis C. de Baca the Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons at the State Department. He was appointed by President Obama to help combat this rising issue.
Not for Sale hosted this event. Their mission – “The Not For Sale Campaign equips and mobilizes Smart Activists to deploy innovative solutions to re-abolish slavery in their own backyards and across the globe. Together, we can end slavery in our lifetime.” They really mean that and are diligent in their efforts to accomplish this mission.
We also had the chance to meet Jenise who works with Giving Children Hope and “Giving Children Hope is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating poverty (domestically and abroad) through disaster relief, health and community development, vocational training and advocacy.” Their annual gala to raise awareness is this Saturday, October 24, 2009, in Buena Park. David Batstone, founder and director of Not for Sale, is the keynote speaker.
When we were driving home from the forum, I was reminded of the importance of our cause – to free the Dalits in India and put an end to the trafficking of people in this world. There are other vigilant groups also fighting for this same cause. As we continue to work together, we will see change.
Producer's Blog 