A Call to Action on Human Trafficking

On February 8, Catholics around the world observe the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, a day dedicated to raising awareness about modern-day slavery.

This day falls on the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who is the patron saint of human trafficking victims.

The U.S. bishops’ conference marked the occasion by drawing attention to the ongoing global crisis of human trafficking, emphasizing its urgency.

The Bishop’s Strong Message

Bishop Mark J. Seitz, head of the bishops’ migration committee and Bishop of El Paso, Texas, highlighted the gravity of the issue, quoting Pope Francis in his statement.

According to Seitz, Pope Francis has described human trafficking not just as a crime, but as a direct violation of human dignity.

“Human trafficking is not only a serious crime — it is a rejection of the God-given dignity of every human being,” Seitz said.

He went on to stress that this widespread injustice is a wound on the body of Christ and all humanity, one that requires a united and ongoing response.

The Church’s Ongoing Commitment

Seitz also reminded everyone that the Catholic Church in the U.S. has been at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking for years.

The U.S. bishops continue to stand with Pope Francis in his tireless efforts to combat this global injustice.

The Church’s commitment to fighting trafficking is deeply rooted in its mission to protect the vulnerable and speak out against exploitation.

The Urgency of Action

In his message, Bishop Seitz urged Catholics to be vigilant and to take action in the fight against trafficking.

He warned that ignoring this issue would have serious consequences. “If we close our eyes and ears, if we become complacent, we will be held to account at the Last Judgment,” Seitz said.

He emphasized that as Catholics, it’s our duty to face this issue with courage and compassion, to have difficult conversations, and to confront the painful realities of human trafficking.

Pushing for Policy Change

Bishop Seitz also reiterated the need for stronger legal and governmental action.

He called on policymakers to implement more meaningful responses to human trafficking, including strengthening protections for survivors and expanding services available to them.

He pointed to the critical role of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act in providing much-needed support and urged continued efforts to enhance these protections.

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity in addressing human trafficking and protecting the most vulnerable in our society.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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