Whereas, Human trafficking, a form of modern slavery taking place in all countries with at least 13 million victims at any time trapped in degrading, dangerous enslavement, is an international industry producing such large profits that it is conservatively the third largest illegal enterprise in the world, beginning to eclipse drug trafficking as a source of income for organized crime; and

Whereas, Human trafficking is destructive to individuals, families, and communities and is fundamentally incompatible with the life given to us by our loving Creator; and

Whereas, Our Eternal Creator weeps for and with those so enslaved and desires for us to act individually and as a church with a worldwide presence through individual and corporate efforts to confront and abolish slavery and end human trafficking; therefore, be it

Resolved, That members of Community of Christ, in organized groups or as a part of their individual stewardship, investigate what resources exist in their area to help them fight slavery and assist victims, and participate in those activities as appropriate given local considerations. Such activities might include participation in

• Rescue and Restore Coalitions (in the United States);

• groups such as Fight the Traffik, Polaris Project, Not for Sale, and the International Organization for Migration;

• gathering supplies for basic needs like food preparation, toiletries, and basic housekeeping to offer to freed victims through rescue groups;

• sponsoring community training on victim recognition; 

• organizing and hosting movies, book clubs, or journal reading to sensitize and educate church members and community members; and be it further

Resolved, That the Human Rights Team identify and recommend resources to assist local congregations and mission centers to advocate for victims, assist with efforts to rescue and restore victims, and prosecute traffickers, and to participate in other appropriate ways to dismantle and abolish this modern day slavery.