Inviting the public to learn more about National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Aiken Technical College will host a “Unique Conversations” panel discussion on human trafficking in the region on Thursday, Jan. 18.
With plans to also discuss what is being done to help victims of human trafficking and prosecute those responsible, this free event will be held at the college’s amphitheater, located at 2276 Jefferson Davis Highway, in building 700. Doors will open to the public at 5:30 p.m.
Panelists will include Mandy Bowden, a human trafficking program coordinator with the Office of the SC Attorney General, Maryann Burgess, the executive director of the Child Advocacy Center of Aiken County, Detective Eleanor Hunt with the Aiken Department of Public Safety, Lisa Kejr, chief executive officer with Lighthouse for Life and the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Eric Kirkland.
“From our campus community to the greater CSRA, I desire to see others become educated about trafficking, recognize potential risks and implement ways to protect themselves and their families,” said Dean of Student Success and Retention Crystal Ratliff.
According to the South Carolina Attorney General’s 2022 Annual Human Trafficking Report, there were 440 human trafficking cases involving 416 victims throughout the state during 2022.
Of the 416 victims, 399 were minors and 17 were adults. Ninety-eight percent of the cases were related to sex trafficking.
“It is my hope that this night of conversation that this night of conversation will have an impact that ripples throughout our communities in many ways,” said Ratliff. “I also hope to unite and provide connections to those who have an interest in or are already working to eradicate modern-day slavery.”
For those interested in attending, registration is required by Jan. 15 at https://bit.ly/3v0c1Ol
“Last but certainly not least, for anyone currently being trafficked, I hope they will hear of our efforts and realize that there are people who are fighting for them and that there is help available,” said Ratliff.
To get help or report human trafficking cases, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888, text GET HELP to 233-733 or visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org
