The Arbor Gallery 2018 Speaker Series will feature a talk on Human Trafficking in Eastern Ontario, presented by Linda Smith, Director of Victim Services in Hawkesbury, on Saturday, February 24 at 7:30 p.m.
Smith will discuss how to recognize signs of human trafficking locally and will elaborate on various ways residents can take action to prevent abuse. As part of the presentation, a local resident, who was a victim of such violence at age 13, will tell her personal story, and her mother will also speak from a parent’s point of view.
“This is a very important issue,” says Smith. “Victims Services has been overwhelmed with cases of trauma and victimization recently. Some of the abuse includes human trafficking. This issue does not just exist elsewhere in the world. It’s right here on our doorstep.”
The corridor between Ottawa and Montreal and the proximity to the United States border are factors that contribute to the local incidence of human trafficking in Eastern Ontario.
The presentation will take place as part of a series entitled “Interactive Talks with Interesting People”. Arbor Gallery is situated at 36 Home Avenue, Vankleek Hill, Admission is $10 per person and includes refreshments provided by Kottage Kuche. For information, call: 613-678-5086.
