To the Editor:

Contrary to popular belief, slavery did not end with the civil war. However, more people begin to realize slavery is still an issue in the form of human trafficking; it is even more severe than it was one hundred years ago.

Over 27 million people are suffering the consequences of slavery worldwide, according to Barbara Degorge in "Global Efforts Can Reduce Human Trafficking in the Persian Gulf States." Americans cannot ignore this issue; Americans must help victims of slavery. We have boasted of freedom and equality for all since the formation of this nation. Enslaved men, women, and children need help from organizations to regain their freedom.

Rani, a victim of modern slavery, shared the story of her experience as a slave. Her parents struggled to raise her because of their financial condition. As a result, her parents agreed to place her under the custody of a neighborhood woman. Rani's parents were devastated when they found the woman was a recruiter for human traffickers. Rani was only seven. Her abusers terrorized her mentally and physically until she was hardly able to speak. When she became mute, her broker decided to sell her. Rani became one of the lucky few to escape after an American family adopted her. Rani and her husband, another exploited individual, eventually established the Tronie Foundation to help other slaves in need.

Organizations that reach out to the traumatized individuals of prostitution, forced labor and all other forms of exploitation will help those victims overcome their experiences and regain the will to live. Some believe organizational efforts to prevent human trafficking are useless because slavery is directly related to economical stability. However, organizations will make everyone more aware of modern slavery. Participate in organizations like the Polaris Project and the International Justice Mission to help slaves regain their human rights.

Amy Yang

Emmaus High School

10th grade student