As human trafficking continues to be a problem in York Region, and across Canada, a group of emergency and community service partners are hosting an awareness event Saturday.
Speakers include: Stephanie Bellows, intelligence analyst from a specialized branch of the Ontario Government, who will be sharing trends in human trafficking within York Region; Krystal Snider, owner of Collaborative Community Solutions, who will be sharing a view into survivor-led programming; and Bijo Sebastian, a detective with York Regional Police in the human trafficking and internet child exploitation division, who will be sharing programs and initiatives undertaken by York Regional Police.
“Human trafficking is a serious issue all over the world, but particularly in North America,” Central York Fire Services said in a news release. “It has become widespread in the Toronto area with a concentration in York Region. As the problem becomes worse, new methods are required to combat these issues and save the possible victims. The purpose of this event is to educate parents and community partners about the signs of sex trafficking in York Region and how we can stop it or rescue those in need.”
Central York Fire Services said the goal of the event is for the community to learn about the issue locally, how to spot signs of someone being groomed or trafficked (sex and labour), and what to do if you spot them.
The drop-in event is organized in partnership with with more than 20 community groups and emergency services departments. It will include community booths and three expert presentations and discussions covering local trends, survivor perspectives and police initiatives to address the issue.
The event is open to anyone interested in better understanding human trafficking in the local community.
“Attendees can connect with community partners, participate in discussions with experts in the field of human trafficking, and learn how we can help combat human trafficking,” the release said.
Central York Fire Services is hosting the event alongside the OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau, York Regional Police, York Paramedics and other community partners working toward eradicating human trafficking.
The event will be Saturday, July 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Central York Fire Services Station 4-5, 300 Earl Stewart Dr., Aurora.
