Human Trafficking

Recently Gov. Blagojevich signed into law House Bill 1469. This bill criminalizes human trafficking and the involuntary servitude of adults and minors. This law empowers local and state law enforcement to identify victims and prosecute traffickers. Protections provided to victims include access to Illinois emergency services and assistance, victim certification for Federal benefits and services, and mandatory restitution.

In conjunction with this legislation, Gov. Blagojevich launched a statewide coalition to address the atrocities of human trafficking and slavery. Illinois is the first State in the nation to make this level of commitment to counter trafficking efforts, and this legislation is being used as a model around the country.

The Dominican Alliance, a network of 12 Dominican Congregations, focuses on human trafficking as a justice issue. They promote education of their members, do advocacy and outreach, and connect with international groups like Dominican Sisters International, Dominican Sisters of Africa, and the International Union of Superior Generals.

In June of this year some of the Dominican Justice Promoters attended the United States Catholic Bishops’ Conference, “Voices of Vigilance: Against Human Trafficking” in Baltimore. The input and networking at the conference will enable Dominicans to share at a different level, maximize energy, resources, and connections, and be global and effective.

Some helpful websites might be.
www.stophumantrafficking.com
www.state.gov
www.usdoj.gov/crt/crim/wetf/trafficbrochure.pdf
www.ilo.org