Chiefs of Ontario Host Human Trafficking Lunch and Learn Sessions Highlighting Human …

(Toronto, ON – February 21, 2023) The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) Women's Initiatives Sector will host a lunch and learn session on March 3, 2023, to highlight human trafficking prevention and awareness. During the lunch and learn session, service providers and First Nations will join together to discuss the importance of eradicating human trafficking, how to identify and prevent victimization and shine a spotlight on its impact on at-risk communities and youth.

Tomorrow, February 22, 2023, marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Every year, millions of women, men, and youth worldwide are victims of human trafficking and exploitation. According to a report published by the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking in 2014, 50% of the trafficked girls and 51% of the trafficked women were Indigenous.

“For far too long, First Nations, particularly women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, have been disproportionately affected by sexual exploitation and trafficking. This must end,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “Providing awareness and education on how to protect at-risk communities and youth from exploitation and eradicate human trafficking is essential in protecting the health and wellbeing of First Nations women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people and our communities.”

“Sexual exploitation and human trafficking of First Nations women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people is a significant concern that has yet to be properly addressed and recognized by any government. On National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, I stand with First Nations communities and service providers in preventing human trafficking and supporting survivors, and call on the Government of Canada and Government of Ontario to do the same.”

COO previously held an online lunch and learn session on February 10, 2023. The presentation featured Patrick Dussault, Anti-Human Trafficking Liaison for IETHINISTEN:HA Akwesasne Family Wellness Program and former Ontario Provincial Police officer. Participants gained knowledge in identifying what human trafficking is, the systemic factors that affect survivors and at-risk communities and youth, and how to prevent human trafficking.

COO's second lunch and learn will occur virtually on March 3, 2023. The presentation will feature former MP Joy Smith, who previously led the national discussion on human trafficking and championed Criminal Code amendments to strengthen sentencing for traffickers and enhance Canadian laws. Participants will learn the signs of human trafficking and how to prevent victimization.

The March 3 lunch and learn is free to attend and is appropriate for service providers, educators, and community members. To register, please visit https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/lunch-and-learn.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media Contact:

Genna Benson
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Policy and Communications Sector
Chiefs of Ontario
Cell: 416-523-4020
Email: [email protected]