Dreaming & working for a world without human trafficking

The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary is marking a significant milestone as they celebrate 20 years of taking a united stand against human trafficking.

By Sr. Katleho Khang, SNJM

Human trafficking has sadly become a prevalent issue globally, fueled by factors such as poverty, greed, corruption, unemployment, war, sexual exploitation, and organized crime. According to the ILO United Nations Statistics on Human Trafficking Worldwide, over 49.6 million people have fallen victim to this heinous crime, making it the most serious crime in the world.

Collaborating for Change

In a recent interview with Vatican News, Sister Linda Haydock, SNJM, the Superior General of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, shed light on the collaborative efforts undertaken by their religious congregation to combat human trafficking.

Sister Haydock mentioned numerous partnerships, including their collaboration with the Canadian organization CATHII (The Action Committee Against Internal and International Human Trafficking), aimed at ending human trafficking through education and awareness.

Another significant partnership is with Talitha Kum, the International Network of Consecrated Life Against Human Trafficking, where the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary have played an active role in forming networks in various countries.

In Brazil, the Sisters are part of the Rede um Grito Pela Vida (Shout for Life Network), providing workshops, spreading awareness, and offering assistance to those in need.

Through educational initiatives and workshops, the Sisters have reached out to churches, schools, and healthcare systems worldwide, striving to make a difference in the fight against human trafficking.

Hope for the Future

Sister Haydock shared her hopes for the future, emphasizing the need for broader collaboration across all sectors of society to address the root causes of human trafficking. She believes that every effort, no matter how small, can contribute to creating systemic changes.

As the world observes the UN World Day of Trafficking in Persons on July 30, Sister Haydock calls upon members of the Congregation, affiliates, and mission partners to renew their commitment to end human trafficking and stand in solidarity with survivors.

She concluded by reminding everyone of their collective responsibility to combat human trafficking, echoing the words of Pope Francis: “If we do nothing, we will be guilty of complicity.” The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary remain steadfast in their mission to break the chains of trafficking and create a brighter future for all.