LANCASTER, PA — On Saturday, October 5, Musser Park in Lancaster will be the starting point for the Freedom Walk, an event organized by Hope Inspire Love, a nonprofit committed to raising awareness of human trafficking. The walk aims to shine a light on the harrowing reality of human trafficking and sexual exploitation affecting communities across Pennsylvania, including Lancaster, Reading, and Philadelphia.
Participants in the Freedom Walk will engage in a two-mile silent march through Lancaster City, holding signs to communicate the urgent message that human trafficking is a real and pressing issue. The event will also feature a “Trafficking Story,” an immersive experience that educates attendees on the real-life impacts of trafficking, alongside informational tents offering resources and support.
Heather Castellino, Chief Deputy Attorney General from the Human Trafficking Section of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, will speak at the event, highlighting the state’s efforts to combat this crime.
The walk will serve not only as a demonstration of solidarity but also as a call to action for the community to recognize and fight against human trafficking. In addition to Hope Inspire Love, other anti-trafficking organizations will be present to showcase their services and collaboration in this critical fight.
Amy Thurston, Founder, President, and CEO of Hope Inspire Love, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Sex trafficking is happening right here in our own backyards, and this walk is providing a tangible first step to make a difference in our community. Through our trauma-informed mentorship program, we are empowering survivors of sex trafficking to flourish and thrive. We do this walk for the one victim, the one survivor. The work we do and the awareness through this walk are all about transforming lives and providing avenues of prevention education and restorative services.”
The Freedom Walk begins at 10 a.m. at Musser Park, with the walk commencing at 10:45 a.m. and concluding at 1 p.m., inviting all who wish to stand against human trafficking to join.
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