Guardians of Innocence: Protecting Kids from Human Trafficking
If your kid has access to the internet, then the world has access to your kid, and that's a powerful concept to grasp.
January marks Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and this episode of 'Diary of an Overcomer' couldn't be more relevant. Host Carol welcomes Andrew Dawson, a leading advocate in the fight against human trafficking, to discuss this pressing issue. Andrew works with F.R.E.E. International, a network dedicated to ending trafficking in the U.S., and brings a wealth of experience from his work in Las Vegas and beyond.
Human trafficking isn't just a problem in far-off places; it's happening right here in our communities. Andrew shares eye-opening statistics and personal stories, revealing how traffickers target vulnerable kids on social media. He clears up common misconceptions about what trafficking looks like and emphasizes the importance of recognizing grooming as a precursor. But it's not all doom and gloom. Andrew offers practical advice for parents on how to protect their children from online exploitation.
He stresses that if your child has access to the internet, the world has access to them. Establishing rules and boundaries is crucial, but building strong relationships with your kids is even more important. Andrew recommends tools like the Bark app to help monitor online activity and keep kids safe. The episode also delves into the recovery journey for trafficking victims. Andrew highlights the work of F.R.E.E.
International in providing trauma-informed care and advocacy, and underscores the need for legal action to prosecute traffickers. This episode is a must-listen for any parent or guardian. It's a wake-up call to take action and safeguard our children from the hidden dangers of human trafficking.