When most of us think of slavery, we envision it happening a long time ago. Most of us are ignorant to the existence of modern day slavery. This included me. However, after watching a news special on human trafficking and modern day slavery, I was enlightened to the fact that it is prominent in many cities here in America.
Every day many young teenage girls and boys are abducted, and forced to do awful things. Taken from public places such as the mall, movie theater, or other unsuspecting sites, these girls and boys are bought and sold for the sole use of their bodies. Property doesn't begin to describe the statuses at which these teens are degraded. Most teens believe this can’t happen to them. I’ll admit, I believed this, also. But human trafficking doesn't exist only in alleys and creepy buildings, but in retail fronts we drive past every day.
Immediately following the watching of that news special, I joined a campaign designed to stop human trafficking and modern day slavery. With the help of other teens, I was able to collect $35 dollars. This isn't a huge amount. However it solidifies the idea that every person can play a small part in changing someone else’s life.
Modern day slavery and human trafficking are rarely discussed topics among teens. However, they are still extremely important. Teenagers are the prominent targets; therefore, it’s in our hands to put an end to it. As one person we can make a small change, but as a united front we can end this epidemic.