1 in 6 women in America will experience sexual assault or rape in their lifetime. Chances are you know one of them.  Sexual violence plagues our society. It exists under a veil of secrecy, protection and discrimination.  It is justified with sayings like, “she dressed like she wanted it” or “she was paid for it”. 

Sex-trafficking is the commercialization of sexual assault where women, children and sometimes men are repeatedly abused.  Their pimp or trafficker forces them to comply with the “customer” under threat of harm.  There are an estimated 100,000 children in the sex industry in America subjected to daily assault and rape.  The average age of entry into prostitution is 12 to 14.

3 things you can do to protect children from commercial sexual exploitation

1) Protect teens online.  “One in seven youths (age 10 to 17) experience a sexual solicitation or approach while online” (Online victimization of Youth: Five Years Later 2006). Here are some practical internet safety tips.

2) Reach out to teens you know.  Pimps have been known to target children who are already isolated and hurting.  A little care and concern can prevent a lifetime of pain. If you are a youth consider reaching out to others at school. If you are an adult look into volunteering with a mentoring organization such as the Boys and Girls Club or a Church Youth Group.

3) Oasis prevents sex trafficking by educating youth before they are lured into the sex industry. You can invest in the protection of children by donating now.