Before I continue with more posts, I need to tell you about a very important aspect of pageantry. My platform!! For those of you who have no idea what this is, it is an issue or topic of our choosing that we want to support. My platform is no where near the typical pageant platform, but it is most definitely one that needs to be addressed.
Human Sex Trafficking: Here in the US
Human Sex Trafficking is the buying and selling of people for the sex trade, and often times the people who are being sold are not involved by choice.
No, this is not a glamours topic nor a very happy one. But the sad truth, is that this horrid lifestyle is the reality for over 10 million children world wide!
I chose this topic because the Miss America Organization is all about women empowerment. I couldn't think of a better place to bring this issue. The first few years I competed, I discussed just human sex trafficking in general, but as I went out and spoke with different groups I realized how uninformed citizens of the United States were. I realized that this is something that the people need to be educated on because this crime is happening right here right now!
Sadly, worldwide human sex trafficking generates $32 billion a year, and over 1/3 of that (9.5 billion) comes from the United States alone! The Emancipation Proclamation was created in 1863 and that was supposed to bring an end to slavery, and it is 2013 and this is still an issue. I find it so sad and so sickening that a country that is supposed to be the land of the free has such a presence in this crime.
The city of Seattle is ranked 3rd highest in the nation with anywhere from 500-700 minors being trafficked through the streets on a weekly basis. Seattle is only 30-45 minutes away from where I live and it is so scary to think that something so horrible is occurring in my state!
However, there is a light at the end of this very dark tunnel, the state of Washington is leading the way in combating this fight! We currently have the strongest laws and punishment in place and the government has set aside millions of dollars to properly train our police force on this issue.
On a happier note, I am please to announce that if I am fortunate enough to receive the title of Miss Auburn that I will be partnering with Compassion2One!
They are a national organization that is located in Seattle who are dedicated to helping end the fight against modern day slavery. There mission statement says the following:
"To rescue children from around the world from slavery exploitation and provide rescued victims the life of safety and joy every child deserves."
I am so excited about this partnership and the things to come. Check out their website for more information!
www.compassion2one.org
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