Children sold as Sex slaves

Sexual slavery is one of the world’s fastest growing crimes and is a common problem we are facing throughout the world. It is known to occur in almost all the continents in the world. Today, many children are be trafficked into sex slavery daily in an abundant form. Sexual slavery or forced sexual slavery is the organized coercion of unwilling people into different sexual practices. Reports show that human rights groups estimate that anywhere between 12.3 million and 27 million people are enslaved in forced or bonded labor, child labor, sexual servitude, and involuntary servitude at any given time. In the United States today, the FBI estimates that well over 100,000 children and young women are trafficked. They range in age from 9 to 19, with the average age being 11. In other countries there are girls as young as six years old working as a prostitute? These are not bad children or children who choose this life, but are sometimes victimize by their own family. Many victims are no longer just runaways, or kids who've been abandoned. Many of them are from what would be considered "good" families, who are lured or coerced by clever predators.


Today, these predators discover clever new ways to lure children into sex slavery. Some offer modelings contracts to teens or tell them they are photographers and kidnap them which lead to being sold as a sex slave. The use of the internet is highly favorable for trafficking children into sex slavery. These slaves not only work as sex slaves in that country they were kidnapped but also being imported and exported around the world.


Last year in my home country of Trinidad and Tobago large shipment containers were found that had thousands of little children getting ready to be exported to other countries on the sea-port. When I heard about this case on the news I was in complete shock and disappointed in the people who would carry out these acts on helpless children. I know that the country still suffers from extreme poverty but resorting to selling children in to sex slavery is disgusting and is no excuse for getting out of poverty. I later found out that the police received a tip and busted them through their investigation. However, many of the children did not survive because they died due to heat exhaustion and starvation.
Many countries that still hold old traditional of arrange marriages. Fortunately, some of them have been exposed to selling young girls as sex slaves to older men. They try to use the traditions as an excuse or cover up to sell young women to men to pay off family debt or for trade of a new possession. However, I personally follow in a culture that follows old traditional ways but don’t follow in pre arrange marriages or marriages of girls from an early age. The traditional guidelines set for young women and men, are that they are to remain virgins until marriage and or become born again virgins before marriage. The traditions we follow are closely to those of the ancient biblical days and are respected amongst its followers. But it does not give elders to use young girls for personal possession or advocate any type of sex slavery.


In those poorer countries, researchers say some parents sell their own daughters into slavery to pay household expenses and buy food. Some of them actually don’t view it being something wrong. It is reported that some parents feel like they are doing something good for their daughters because they are being used to keep the family from extreme poverty and that should be seen as a good thing. Also that the girl who sold in slavery may be exempt from poverty and should just do what is asked of their masters and they would be ok.
Slavery is something from early historic days. I discovered that some countries in the early 1920’s sold women into slavery and the League of Nation’s claim to have signed documents have it abolished and track the import and exportation of human trafficking. However, the League of Nations failed to support Ruler’s in many African nations to protect them from outside forces attacking their countries. This led to significant deaths and rapes amongst the African continent by outsiders from Italy and Rome.


Today the United Nation of Drugs and crime (UNODC) launched a global human trafficking awareness campaign and has joined forces with partners in more forty countries to produce new techniques to track those involved in the sex trade. They work together developing strategies that will work universally to reduce this criminal activity.
The G-8 should come together with an untied force to abolish sex slavery throughout the world. It may sound hard but it’s not impossible to create a system that punishes sex slave drivers and protect our valuable resource, our children. Every child in every country is important and has a natural inborn right to safety and protection from predators.


Report Suspected Incidents of Trafficking
in the United States; call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center’s 24-hour toll-free hotline number at 888-3737-888
Works Cited:

Flickr.com (n.d.) http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/148239165_973ea4870b.jpg.
Frontline; sex slaves (n.d) Retrieved May 8, 2010 from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/slaves/etc/stats.html.
Gender across borders (2009). Retrieved May 8, 2010. http://genderacrossborders.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/human_trafficking_by_me19leela.jpg.

Are Our Teens Sex Offenders?

I have read recently that sexual offenders have many characteristics and come in various age groups. Even though all sexual offenders may not be considered on the same level as a sexual abuser, they are defined as the same. I feel like so many of teen today are either become victims easily through “sexting” described as (texting nude photos) or becoming a sexual predator via cell phone. The numbers has significantly grown in the year 2009 and seems to me that the numbers will increase. Who is considered the predator today? Is it our teens?


In my research, I realized that they carry the same definition. A sex offender is described as (abuser) is a person, who committed a sex crime. It can differ from state to state based on the states’ own legislature laws. However, in most jurisdictions, it defines offenses that include child sex abuse, downloading child pornography, rape, and statutory rape. The term sexual offender is often used to describe severe or repeat sex offenders.


In today’s society it is almost a trap to fall into in becoming a sex offender. Sex offenders are not just those who physically or psychology cause damage to a victim. But, they are considered to be those who download pictures of minors (under age 17). Many students fall prey to acts of a sexual offender. Now this can be tricky, because if you are legally 18 and you take pictures or send pictures of a 16 year old and you are caught, you will be considered a sex offender.


It happens in the school where many don’t think this is illegal. Taking pictures of themselves sending it to others and being transferred around in cyberspace. Today, so many junior high and high school children are being viewed as potential sex offenders when they reached the age of 18. It has become the “norm” for texting nude photos to and fro cell phones. Many of our children today fall prey to this ongoing crime.
How well do we understand the consequences of ‘sexting”? On the news I heard of many stories of school children “sexting” photos of themselves and of others. But they don’t understand the seriousness of this incident. I think that schools need to raise more awareness about “sexting” to decrease the exposure to sexual predators.
In my readings through some articles, I found out that within three years of release, 2.5% of released rapists were rearrested for another rape, and 1.2% of those who had served time for homicide were arrested for a new homicide. It has been studied that majority of sex offenders were less likely than non-sex offenders to be rearrested for any offense, 43% of sex offenders versus 68% of non-sex offenders. I also read that sex offenders were about four times more likely than non-sex offenders to be arrested for another sex crime after their discharge from prison estimate about 5.3% of sex offenders versus 1.3% of non-sex offenders.


So what do we do now? We need to be aware of the dangers that our children may expose themselves, unknowingly of the damage they can do to themselves. Parents should talk to teens about how they can become a registered sex offender just by the use of picture texts that they do so often and the outcome of it. No parent would want to see their teen as a registered sex offender and be viewed as a predator amongst neighbors. I think that if the schools also have children and parent workshops to discuss the issues and the consequences, the numbers of these occurrences would significantly decrease.



Works Cited

Reitz, S. ( June 2008) Teens sending nude photos via cell phones.
Retrieved on April 4th 2010 from the internet. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24970829/

Sex offender. (n.d.). Retrieved April 4, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sex_offender.



Glossary of images
http://www.gizmodiva.com/entry_image/0809/12/texting.jpg

Who is the Abuser: The church, the school, the family or all of the above?

Now we’ve all read about abused cases taking place in churches, in the schools and even where you are most safe, the home. Rape or sexual abuse can occur anywhere. But I truly disgusted with the fact that so many cases occur in these places. I read in an article how the school is one of the major targets that sexual predators attack. The school is viewed to many as a home away from home for children because the majority of their day is spent there. Therefore, predators seek to lure around to prey on vulnerable children to kidnap or attack. Research show that teachers are empathetic toward abused children, but fear and lack of knowledge may make them hesitant about reporting abuse. Teachers are required by law to report suspect of child abuse, most teachers are not certified in child abuse and cannot determine what abuse is. In one article a survey proved that 81 percent of teachers reported receiving no preservice information about abuse and neglect, and 66 percent said they had not been given any in-service education in this area.
So how safe is our children at school? How well do we trust the caretakers of our children to ensure the protection of our children when they are away from our eyesight? Well, it not only in school or just from predators lurking around schools but in places where most people worship. Now I am not writing this to offend or disrespect anyone’s faith. But there have been several allegations about the Catholic churches being involves in sex scandals involving children. Like I said before it can happen anywhere and in any church as well.
In another discussion, we learn how the Los Angeles Archdiocese on July 15 announced the largest church settlement of sexual abuse lawsuits to date, agreeing to pay more than 500 alleged victims a total of $660 million. The judge on this case said that he felt it was the right thing to do for the victims. Monetary compensation is not going to erase the afflictions on the victims but monetary compensation has always been used as a settle for many criminal cases.
All people should at least feel safe in a church because it claims to represent a safe haven for all as the leaders represent honesty and caring for all. But not everything is the way it seems. It is disturbing for victims and members to acknowledge that their leader or priest has been involved in acts of an abomination. I think it is important as individuals to always keep a circle of trusted people amongst our children to limit the exposure of them falling victim to sexual abuse.
However, so many times children are being exposed to various caretakers throughout the day while parents work or attend school. Majority of families today are unstable and children are shifted around through the course of the day from school, to after school or sitters. Even when a child becomes a teenager, some parents’ think that they are old enough to be around friends’ houses and that they are old enough to tell or protect themselves from danger. However, in cases of sexual abuse it is hard to talk about it if occurs or defend yourself from predators. Predators can be family members or close friends that our children stay by without parents. Can you understand how hard it could be to tell your parents that a family member abuse you or a close friend? As parents I think that we need to be aware of particular signs of child abuse. In an article I read I gave some points to sexual abuse. I read some important signs of sexual abuse. Some signs are regressive behaviors such as thumb sucking, enuresis (bed wetting), and nightmares; sleep disturbances; persistent, inappropriate sexual play with self, with peers, or toys. Also knowledge of sexual behavior (often evident in drawings) that is advanced for the child's age; poor peer relationships; overly compliant behavior; acting-out behavior such as delinquency or aggression (often seen in children who attempted to get help but received none) In older children signs of pseudo-mature behavior; school-related difficulties including an inability to concentrate, faltering school performance, reluctance to change clothes for gym class or to participate in physical activities, and arriving at school early and staying late; Some children decide to run away from home; express suicidal thoughts or attempts; and sexual promiscuity or avoidance of relationships. This is important factors to be aware of as parents and teachers. The longer the occurrence takes place or goes unknown to longer the psychological damage affects the victim and the decreases the chances of recovery.
Parents need to be aware of changes that they make in their children lives and ways that it can affect their safety. The law also needs to implement courses for teachers to understand signs in children and encourage more awareness of sexual abuse in children. If we all work together and pay more attention I think that the opportunity for the action of sexual abuse to take place would be limited.

Works Cited:
Lumsden, L. (2003-2005). The Role of Schools in Sexual Abuse Prevention and Intervention. ERIC Digest Series Number 61. Retrieved March 17, 2010, from http://www.ericdigests.org/pre-9219/sexual.htm.
Wooden, C. (2007) Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Retrieved March 17 2010, from http://www.americancatholic.org/News/ClergySexAbuse.

Glossary of Images

http://www.concurringopinions.com/archives/images/family.jpg
http://www.unac.org/ready/en/resources/SCHOOL.JPG
http://www.concurringopinions.com/archives/images/family.jpg

Can sexually abused victims recover?

FROM VICTIM TO VICTORY!!!

Can I ever be healed from sexual abuse? Will I ever be the same? Some victims asked this question as they try to put the pieces of their lives back together again. But some researchers feel that sexually abused people may really never recover fully from this tragedy because of the psychological damage it can cause. The physical damage over time may heal but the stigma of abuse still sometimes lingers over a period of time. However, there are ways to help heal these wounds and encourage healthier living.


In order to begin healing, victims must first identify that they have been sexually assaulted. Most people, especially when it happens to a minor, do not recognize that the incident that they were involved in was sexual abuse. In these cases, this step helps the victim recognize the issue and help them understand that it was not their fault and the healing process begins. There are victims who feel like mourning what they lost, such as innocence, virginity or childhood is an important step to take. Victims may feel like anger is their main emotion and want to be free from that feeling. They feel the need to be released from anger and self pity and become powerful filled with enthusiasm of life and hope. For some, it is imperative to first heal your inner child then take the step to mainly forgive yourself. True healing process can and will take time but not it’s not impossible.


Victims sometimes blame themselves for the incident and take the responsibility of the predator. The must understand that sexual abuse can happen to anyone to no fault of their own. They need to talk about the issue with family or friends and even a therapist to ensure a healthier mind that would keep them from struggling with guilt and shame. Victory over victimization is the key essential that will eliminate the burden of being a victim. It may hurt to talk and relive the trauma. However, for many recovered victims they say talking to someone or a group who understand the issue and can give direction in becoming stronger and powerful every day.


Everyday there are people who may be closer to us than we know are struggling with conflicting issues in their life because of abuse. Researchers study that in most household’s victims and predators are evident. We need get involved in our children’s lives and discuss topics that may seem uncomfortable but necessary to secure of families from pain. Prevention could keep the increasing numbers of victims from growing and help protect our loved ones from victimization.


Work Cited

Darkness into light. (2001-2008). Retrieved February 18, 2010, from http://www.darkness2light.org/KnowAbout/statistics_2.asp.

Survivors of sexual abuse. (2002-2010). Retrieved on February 17 2010, from http://www.allaboutlifechallenges.org/survivors-of-sexual-abuse-faq.htm



Glossary of Images


hodgechiro.com/images/Happy%20person.jpg


http://www.fotosearch.com/BDX118/bxp27143/

YOU COULD BE LOOKING AT SEXUAL ASSAULTED VICTIM

REMEMBER SEXUAL ASSAULT CAN DEVELOP IN ANY FAMILY REGARDLESS OF NATIONALITY, CLASS, RACE, ETC.
http://www.photographersdirect.com/stockimages/p/people_eyes.asp












Unfortunately, Faith is not the only one faced by this tragedy of sexual abuse. I wonder why this happened to so many girls and boys just like Faith. The average numbers of sexually assaulted children today is 80,000 per year reported cases. Reality is there is an unnumbered amount of unreported cases because unfortunately many children do not tell it to anyone. Reports also show that 1/3 of today's children would be sexually abuse before the age of 18. This includes 40% of all female and 30% of all male. The shame and guilt that they feel is embarrassing and confusing for a child. Many children grow throughout their lives carrying around this burden without seeking help or therapy. What happens to them mentally? Do they act out of these psychological issues? I did a little research and found most of the children who were sexually assaulted once or over a period of time, suffer from self infliction, intimacy issues, depression, withdrawal and sometimes suicide. These children who grow into adults still feel the pain of be attack as a child or as an adult. Many of them who have not sought help in anyway might grow into an abuser or follow into the life as prostitutes or drug abuse.


The number of sexual assault cases in the United States alone seems relatively normal in children. How can this not be considered a national issue? A report released by the National Institute of Justice in 1997 revealed that of the 22.3 million children between the ages of 12 and 17 years in the United States, 1.8 million were victims of a serious sexual assault or abused. The criteria for becoming a rape victim, is not bias on age, size, gender of race. It could happen to anyone and with these numbers it could be everyone. Reports describe sexual assault as any sexual activity involving a child where consent is not or cannot be given. Sexual contact between an adult and a minor child, as well as an older teen and a younger child are both examples of sexual abuse. I also read that depending upon the age at which a state deems a child capable of giving consent, sexual abuse can also occur between two minors. There are so many forms of sexual abuse and individuals need to be aware of it.


The law works on preventing and protecting children even in the cyber world. They work on protecting children from being victims in pornographic images that circle the internet to lure weak minds into this loophole. Today, predators seek to involve others in engaging in their crime. There are groups of sexual predators that unite in the internet creating various websites to build their sites for their pleasure. They teach each other ways to disguise themselves, making children vulnerable to them. Several pedophiles access in “teen chat rooms” engaging teen into this acts without it being look as a crime. Unfortunately, the law is not always successful in this preventative solution. Several pedophiles’ get away and feel that they could never be caught because it is almost impossible to trace them. However, today the Criminal Justice System is increasing their unit in the Child abuse and Sex Crime area to learn more tactical ways of capturing predators online and everywhere else. There are strong hopes to continue to be successful in eliminating these predators as they have increased traces of useful evidence to use to prosecute them.



Works Cited:

Bogorad, B. E., et. al. (n.d.). Sexual abuse: Surviving the pain. The American Academy of Experts of Traumatic Stress.Retrieved February 4, 2010, from
http://www.aaets.org/arts/art31.htm

Facts for families. (n.d.). American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Retrieved February 4, 2010, from
http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/child_sexual.

Mahoney, D.& Faulkner, N. (1997, December) Brief overview of Pedophiles on the web The Internet Online Summit: Focus on Children. Retrieved February 4, 2010 from http://www.prevent-abuse-now.com/home.htm

Why this happened to Me?

I became very involved in issues relating to sexual abuse a long time ago. This story about sexual abuse is not just a story but also a reality that is very close to me. I remember when I was fourteen and I attended a teen program, where there was a teen girl who I befriended that was sexually assaulted. One afternoon she came into the program and took me by the hand crying, telling me that she was raped.

Since then I’ve been very concern about sexually abuse people. I am someone very close to a sexually abused victim. It is an issue that just doesn’t go away if you stop thinking about it. Trust me I tried. Anytime I hear something like this it upsets me. Since then my friend who I call Faith has been sexually assaulted several times. The pain and burden that she still bears today is hard for me to deal with. So many boys and girls go through this experience through no fault of their own. Why me? Is the question she asked me? I still don’t know the answer. It hurts me to know my close friend still feels depress from time to time and goes through a great deal of pain. I want to share the issue to bring about awareness to others because there are numerous children going through this same problem.
A family friend first sexually assaulted Faith when she was seven or eight she told me.However, she said she was so young that she did not understand or felt as angry because she did not know what was really going on. All she remembers is that it did not feel good and she knew somehow it was something wrong. Since graduating from the teen program I returned as a teen adolescence volunteer. It seems that from the years I attended, the issues teen faced got worse.

The very personal stories I heard from several teens is astonishing. What I also learned that sometimes these issues start for some victims from a very young age. I know of a girl who was assault at the age of five. This is why I am sharing this story. Our children today are in danger of sexual predators. Most of them are people we know. I want readers to understand how dangerous it is as a victim to feel like your living and dying in silence. We need to talk to our children. We need to get them to talk about all things good and bad. The real danger is growing in fear and living in silence if you’ve been abused. I have two children. Ages four and two. I have already experienced as a parent, with another child touching my child. No physical harm was done, but fear of physiological damage. I am fearful at times cause I know the danger of what sexual abuse can cause. And I hope that changes can be made today in efforts to protects all youth from sexual abuse.