Superbowl Sunday--Super for ???

How will you spend your Super Bowl Sunday?

As people around the country meet for food, fun and fellowship--eating to their heart’s content and cheering on their favorite team--young girls are being sold into the superbowl city, in and around Dallas, Texas. Church activities are put on hold because of this big game--one of the biggest human trafficking events in the U.S.A.
“It’s a sad fact that where men and money converge, human trafficking follows. To meet the demand, many prostitutes will be brought in, including children and teens. Many of these will be forced victims, literally being sex slaves for human traffickers.”
“Dallas Cowboy, three time pro-bowler Jay Ratliff has joined the fight against the tragedy of child human trafficking. ‘It has recently come to my attention that American children are being bought and sold for profit and pleasure and I’m mad. Men, I’m talking to you,’ declared Mr. Ratliff.” He states that “real men don’t buy children, they don’t buy sex.”
It is estimated that between 100 and 300,000 U.S. children are trafficked within our own borders each year. (Aaron Russell, Dallas City Buzz Examiner) 25% come through Texas. (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services)
“Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott noted that there is a ‘looming potential explosion of human trafficking around the Super Bowl.’” He also announced that he would be sending a dozen staff members from his human trafficking task force to assist local law enforcement in cracking down on human trafficking during this years Super Bowl. (John Burger)
Human trafficking is the fastest growing illegal trade and is expected to surpass drug trafficking in the next two years, according to Traffick 911. (Josephine Vivaldo--Christian Post Contributer)
Several local organizations in the Dallas area are joining in the effort to raise awareness and support ground work in recognizing and reporting human trafficking for the Super Bowl 2011. Also, 5 major airlines offered a course last week to teach ways to identify traffickers and their victims.
So while you’re enjoying your wings and nachos--pray for the little ones losing their innocence today.
Other resources:
www.traffick911.com

Some Red Flags:
Scripted answers.
Inconsistencies in story.
Branding or tattoos, especially that reflect ownership or money.
Bruising, including handprints or thin marks like an extension cord or wire. Varied stages of healing with black, purple, blue, yellow shades.
Coming on to several men.
Appears helpless, shamed, nervous.
Malnourished.
Inability or fear to make eye contact.
Chronic runaway; homeless youth.
Dating much older, abusive or controlling man.
Not attending school or has numerous school absences.
Clothes that say, “Daddy’s girl” or inappropriate for weather.

On its own, one of these signs might not indicate trafficking, but 2-3 together are a good indication. The average life expectancy for a child forced into sexual slavery is 7 years. Don’t wait. Call 911 and the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 1.888.373.7888, if you suspect something. It’s better to be wrong than not to report it. A life might just depend on it.

"Speak up for those who can't speak for themselves." Proverbs 31:8