As part of Public Health Week, Montgomery County Community College hosted a discussion on human trafficking on April 4. The event featured Sr. Kathleen Coll, SSJ, the executive director of Dawn’s Place, a Philadelphia safe-house for victims and survivors of sex trafficking, and a survivor of human trafficking.

In her introduction, MCCC’s Dean of Social Sciences Gloria Oikelome told the audience of students, faculty and community members that “human trafficking happens everywhere.” While it is possible to think that human trafficking only appears in movies and television, the speakers stressed that it is a worldwide concern that could affect anyone.

Sr. Kathleen, who is a sister of St. Joseph of Philadelphia, walked audience members through the nature of human trafficking. She reported that an estimated 40 million people around the world are victims of human trafficking.

Following Sr. Kathleen’s remarks, a survivor, who wishes to remain anonymous shared her story with the audience, which included drug abuse and sexual violence. Eventually, the survivor was able to get the help she needed and now works to help other women who are victims of human trafficking.

The event was presented by Public Health Instructor Dr. Gifty Key, the Public Health Program and the Center for Faculty Development as a part of the College’s Public Health Week.

If you, or someone you know, needs assistance contact us at info@ahomefordawn.org or call the toll free, confidential hotline (available 24/7) for the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1 (888) 373-7888.