Human Trafficking ‘ Mercy and Justice shall meet.’
July 29, 2014
Our organisation ANZRATH (Aotearoa NZ Religious against Trafficking of Humans) began in 2013. It consists of a small group of Sisters, Brothers and Lay people. I joined it over a year ago with another Mercy Sister, Valerie Gunnion.
We meet regularly and I am inspired and sustained by the enthusiasm and quiet dedication of each member. As a Mercy sister I believe that what I can contribute to the group is very much part of the works of Mercy. Catherine’s passion was for the poor and vulnerable, especially women and children.
A big part of the ANZRATH mission is advocacy, education of ourselves and the general public, and raising awareness around human trafficking, plus other forms of abuse and exploitation of women, men, and children.
Our focus is fourfold: Against
(1) internal trafficking of young girls for prostitution.
(2) Underage prostitution in Auckland.
(3) Forced marriages among migrant familes living in Aotearoa New Zealand
(4) Providing educational resources for young people.
I believe it is vital for all Sisters of Mercy, and Mercy associates and colleagues, to be aware of and to combat this evil of human trafficking which is sadly within our own country and world-wide.
'….It is not possible to remain indifferent before the knowledge that human beings are bought and sold like goods…… The human person ought never to be sold or bought as if he or she were a commodity'
- Pope Francis, March 5, 2014.
Justice is integral to Mercy, and requires prayerful action.
'Mercy and truth have embraced; justice and peace will kiss”'( Ps 85 RSV ).
Recently we at ANZRATH organised a public meeting to raise awareness around human trafficking and related problems. While the attendance was not large, it was a really valuable and informative evening for those present.
Three speakers were excellent and presented clearly. The topics covered underage prostitution in our country and quotes from the girls interviewed were sad and often revealed their own history of abuse within the family. Another topic was on cyber bullying, and the social media where a video clip showed children of about 10years old (girls mainly) unaware of the danger of giving their personal details over the internet eg Facebook, Twitter, and the risk of on line predators.
The third speaker followed this up with further terrible statistics of online pornography in Aotearoa New Zealand. Some sites get 50,000 to 60,000 hits per day. As soon as one site is closed down another opens. He also spoke about how his organisation ( Child Alert, Ecpat NZ) is alerting the Travel industry, and the Hospitality industry to recognise signs of human trafficking, including traumatised children.
From this meeting and ongoing gatherings, I am challenged to open my eyes and continue to be involved, re young people: to be attentive, and empathetic,
To be always open to learn.
'It’s the children the world almost breaks who grow up to save it' Frank Warren).
If I, we, as women of Mercy can help in lifegiving ways to make this a reality and change life for even one child, it would be more than worthwhile.
Jacqui Miles rsm
Auckland Aotearoa New Zealand
