Human trafficking group fights for change | Letter

Published 5:00 pm Friday, April 22, 2016

I could quote all kinds of horrifying numbers. I could show you photos and give you names. I could share stories that would make your heart break, as they do mine. In fact, this type of information is very effective in bringing the issue into the spotlight. And while the numbers, photos, names and stories speak to the truth about the severity of the issue, not even one statistic is acceptable when it comes to the topic of human trafficking. Neither you nor I, not a single one of your loved ones or mine should become one of those numbers, photos, names or stories.

So, you may ask, “What can I do to be a change agent?” A group of dedicated volunteers with the Federal Way Coalition against Trafficking (FWCAT) believes that it starts on the front lines with knowledge and prevention. And that is where you will find this group striving to eliminate human trafficking from the city of Federal Way. FWCAT’s mission focuses on three main activities: generating community awareness, advocating for justice and providing training opportunities for schools, parent groups, youth groups and clubs. To find out more about FWCAT, including information on the upcoming 4th Annual 5K Walk | Fun Run to raise awareness, please visit www.fwcat.org.

Because not one single person should ever have to experience exploitation, and in the wise words of Benjamin Franklin, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Cami Bayer, Federal Way