Midland College's Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, in collaboration with Reflection Ministries, is hosting a community event titled "Voices: Stories from Survivors of Human Trafficking" on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. The event will take place in Room 101 of the Marie Hall Academic Building at Midland College.
This free event aims to highlight the critical issue of human trafficking – a $236 billion industry – and its impact on the Permian Basin region, which is ranked as one of the top five regions in the U.S. for trafficking. Attendees will hear firsthand accounts from survivors and gain a deeper understanding of this global crisis.
Recent statistics reveal a troubling reality: There are between 1,200 to 1,300 online ads every day in the Permian Basin alone seeking to exploit individuals through human trafficking. This data underscores the urgent need for community awareness and action.
Lisa Bownds, CEO and Founder of Reflection Ministries, emphasizes the importance of this conversation: “In order for us to make change in our communities, we must begin to see people as people, understand the issues, and be someone that is willing to do something.”
The event is open to all members of the community at no cost. Attendees are encouraged to participate in this dialogue and contribute to efforts addressing and preventing human trafficking in the region.
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