Child advocates are expressing outrage over world governments' continued failures to protect millions of defenseless children targeted for criminal abduction each year by monsters who facilitate the unforgiving crimes of internationally abducting or trafficking children. International border-crossing policies often do not mandate that children traveling abroad present a valid passport to border agents if a child is traveling by land or sea. When a child is stolen and illegally removed from their country of origin by either a non-stranger such as a parent, or is a victim of a stranger abduction, that child has been criminally kidnapped. The traumatic consequences placed on the kidnapped child are severe. The majority of these defenseless victims will never recover from the physical and emotional abuse directed toward them. Some of these children are unable to recover: they are lost forever. Presently, international air travel by a minor requires the presentation of a valid passport. However, many nations including the United States permit the submission of a photocopy of a child’s citizenship papers such as a photocopy of a birth certificate as an acceptable travel document for a minor age 16 or younger when traveling abroad by land or sea.
Unquestionably, lax and wreckless travel document policy requirements associated with minors traveling by land or by sea have created a colossal legal loophole - a black hole - for child-thieves and smugglers to criminally transport and remove targeted children from one country to another until they are inevitably gone forever. Undeniably, by the sheer size of the pandemic at hand, predators are utilizing these legal loopholes in alarming, yet relatively immeasurable numbers.
Inconceivably, many countries including the United States, Canada, and nations in the European Union have policies in place that allow for a child 16 years old or younger traveling abroad by either land or by sea to only present to border officials a photocopy of their proof of citizenship such as their original birth certificate.
Child abduction prevention advocates and researchers Carolyn Ann Vlk and Peter Thomas Senese, have previously published several landmark reports including the 'International Child Abduction and Human Trafficking In The Western Hemisphere' and 'Crisis In America: International Parental Child Abduction Today'. They are currently leading a research team that will publish findings on the global epidemic of child abduction and child trafficking as it relates to legal loopholes and other related flaws associated with a child’s international travel documentation requirements. The highly anticipated report titled ‘Global Child Slavery and International Child Abduction Associated With Travel Documentation Requirements' will be released in mid-July, 2011.
‘Chasing The Cyclone’ author and child advocate Peter Thomas Senese commented, “It is disturbing to realize that various governments from around the world have turned their responsible eyes away from the most often used illegal border-crossing strategies implemented by predators involved in international abduction as well as in the trafficking of children: illegally transporting a child into a country by land or by sea using fraudulent documentation due to a senseless policy often implemented often stipulating that a child does not need to present a valid passport at a border-crossing unless the child travels abroad by air. This is insane. Our children demand more from each of us. Any international travel documentation policy that does not include the use of a child being required to travel with a valid passport is a policy that does not address the issues of the safety of children. The upcoming report ‘Global Child Slavery and International Child Abduction Associated With Travel Documentation Requirements' will not only demonstrate how outlandish these non-passport requirement policies are, but hopefully it will also educate judges, law enforcement, and policymakers of just how critical and widespread these issues are. Having such laws in place will also give judges and law enforcement personnel additional tools they need to prevent the kidnapping of a child before it occurs, as once the removal takes place, it is that much more difficult and expensive to remedy.”
In fact, many governments' immigration, borders, and customs agencies publicly and privately have voiced that excessive travel documentation fraud has given rise to dramatic and sweeping increases in the number of international child abductions and human trafficking cases around the world. According to law enforcement officials worldwide, the most effective means to determine if a child is legally traveling abroad is by checking the child’s passport. Nevertheless, even the presentation of a valid passport may not alleviate all illegal removals, particularly those connected to an international parental child abduction due to the potential issuance of a secondary passport related to a child’s possible dual citizenship. However, access to real-time government records associated with a valid passport provides border agents better insight into who is legally crossing into their nation's borders.
Unquestionably, travel documentation requirements that do not require for a child to present a valid passport when traveling abroad by land or by sea have created a worldwide malignant epidemic that continues to destroy millions of lives each year.This plague is so wicked and ubiquitous that it is often acknowledged by governments and leading human rights advocates around the world as one of society’s greatest short-comings. Undoubtedly, there is no one solution; however, it is evident to those familiar with international child abduction and human trafficking that one sure-fire way to turn the tide against the most evil of fates awaiting innocent children targeted for international abduction is to mandate that every child traveling abroad present a valid passport.
Carolyn Ann Vlk, drafter of the State of Florida’s landmark ‘Child Abduction Prevention Act’ law and co-author of numerous research reports on child abduction commented on the need to conduct research on the global dilemma of abduction and trafficking as it is related to significant gaps in travel documentation requirements for children traveling abroad. “My volunteer advocacy in the area of child abduction prevention has allowed me an unobstructed view of the horror the families of a targeted child face. I've spent an incredible amount of time investigating and analyzing current legislation, policies, and trends relevant to child abduction and I have uncovered significant loopholes that are allowing children to be victimized through parental child abduction and human trafficking. In the report Peter Thomas Senese and I published concerning the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), we realize the policy was intended to prevent abduction and trafficking from occurring but in reality it facilitatesthe cross boarder abduction of children through its deficiencies. WHTI allows for the travel requirements of children to vary depending if they are traveling by land, sea or air. In our upcoming report titled ‘Global Child Slavery and International Child Abduction Associated With Travel Documentation Requirements' we will publish our findings concerning travel documentation issues as they relate to child abduction and slavery issues. Our future published findings will demonstrate the urgent and critical need for uniform travel requirements for children, including a passport requirement for all modes of travel. Without uniform passport requirements, society will continue to embrace child abduction and child trafficking, and this is completely unacceptable.”
Oslo based Mr. Martin Waage, the Director of ABP World Group: a world-renown investigation and security team that has remarkably been directly involved in safely recovering over 200 criminally internationally abducted children commented on the outrageous border-crossing situation. "The expanding number of criminally abducted and trafficked children presents a deeply disturbing overview of how severe the situation is. Tragically, the greatest challenge we face in the war against child abduction and trafficking is our inability to carefully monitor and control our borders. Most nations do not have border exit controls. Coupling this incapability with weak travel documentation requirements for children, the hope advocates like myself have to one day reverse the current growth trend is dismal. As one of the leading organizations operating within the recovery of abducted, missing, and kidnapped children, ABP World Group has for years seen an explosive increase in the number of abducted and kidnapped children worldwide. Individual countries' lack of regulation and inspection of travelers, including the European Union’s open borders, has facilitated a large flow of trafficked victims, children abducted by their parents, and kidnappings across borders. This is particularly true in Eastern European, Asian and African countries. In order to stop the destruction of an unthinkable number of children's lives, lawmakers in all countries must address these needs and create laws that protect children's rights, including, critically, changing the travel documentation requirements for all children traveling abroad to include the presentation of a valid passport at all border crossings. Having recovered a substantial number of criminally abducted children taken to and from all over the world, I cannot express in strong enough terms the need to have passports presented at all border crossings for minors traveling abroad. Any failure by governments to address this issue is a direct and absolute disregard to a nation’s most precious citizens: its children."
Janice L. Jacobs, Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs stated in the ‘Report on Compliance with the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction’ previously submitted to the U.S. Congress that "Unfortunately, current trends reflect a steady increase in the number of international parental child abduction cases and highlight the urgency of redoubling efforts to promote compliance with Convention obligations and encourage additional nations to join the Convention." She also writes, "Very few options exist for parents and children who are victims of parental child abduction."
Florida lawyer Patricia Lee, a prominent, successful international family law attorney often referred to in international law circles as a pit-bull with lipstick and who is of counsel to the international law firm of Urban Thier Federer & Jackson and who has substantial familiarity with international parental child abduction cases added, “As a family law practitioner who frequently deals with international issues, I see the risk of, and actual incidences of child abduction growing proportionately to our world shrinking. The failure, or inability, of courts to aggressively pursue reasonable precautions to proactively prevent such abductions is a crime in and of itself. Once an abduction has taken place, the left behind parent faces a morass of legal issues that are not only difficult to surmount due to language and cultural differences, but are also prohibitively expensive for the ordinary parent. The backlash is often permanent, and goes without any redress at all. Our best recourse is to prevent the removal of children at risk prior to it occurring, and we absolutely must have laws and procedures in place that allow us to do so. Anything less is simply irresponsible, and inhumane on a global scale. Children across the world deserve these simple safeguards from such abduction and victimization.”
Ernie Allen, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children previously addressed the crimes against children when he said, "The problem of missing, abducted, trafficked and sexually exploited children is large, growing, under-recognized and under-reported." In addition, Mr. Allen commented that, "Children are the leading victims of violent and personal crimes in this country, victimized at a rate twice as high as the general population." Continuing he stated, “Children are the single most victimized segment of our population. Even with all of the progress we have made, most Americans still don’t understand that basic fact. According to Justice Department research, more than 2,000 children will be reported missing in the United States today!" Mr. Allen added, "The numbers are staggering. The tragedies continue and too many children do not make it home."
San Francisco based Gloria Nyberg, who has dedicated several decades of her life to successfully and safely bringing home children criminally abducted abroad added, “Documentation falsifications is a consistent aspect of travel for children being transported from one country to another, particularly in South and Central America. Children disappear daily, where they are eventually sold and distributed around the world for to beasts trading in the child sex slave industry, to drug dealers increasing their cartel’s presence, or are simply killed for their body organs. Without upholding passport travel requirements for children traveling from one country to another, we are in fact responsible for the monumental problem on our hands that has been partially created by our own failures to protect our children. It is time that we act responsibly as adult citizens charged with protecting innocent children. Indeed, we have an obligation to do our very best to prevent the facilitation of international abduction and child slavery. It is critical that each government adopt a passport-only travel documentation policy for children traveling abroad. Anything less than this is irresponsible.”
Pamela Michell, the remarkable founder of Survivor On A Mission and a leading global advocate spearheading public awareness of human trafficking and slavery issues stated, “Today, there are tens of millions of child slaves with no hope for a future. Kept silent through fraud, force or coercion, children around the world are stolen from their communities in epidemic proportion. Most are forced into slave labor, some caged for sexual exploitation, others await the harvesting of their vital organs, while others abducted live a life on the run...each enduring trauma and danger few will overcome. Strong action is needed now by all governments to protect our children’s' future. Critically we call upon the creation and enforcement of global laws that require a passport to be presented any time a minor travels abroad. Without this, the massive amount of travel documentation fraud that exists today that accounts for an inconceivable and incredulous number of innocent children to be targeted victims of abduction and slavery crimes will continue to rise. As global citizens, we demand more from our governments. Our children expect better from each of us."
International child trafficking and child abduction continue to grow at rapid, uncontrollable, and extraordinary rates. Alarmingly, there still remain achievable protective protocols that can substantially make a difference in the war against child abduction and slavery. One of the most important tools each nation has available to combat the evil of child abduction is to require all children to present a valid passport when traveling abroad. Peter Thomas Senese added, “What is at stake are the lives of millions of targeted children each year. Simply put, we must modify existing laws to include passport presentation for all travelers abroad regardless of age.”
The highlyanticipated report titled ‘Global Child Slavery and International Child Abduction Associated With Travel Documentation Requirements' will be released in mid-July, 2011. To view the'International Child Abduction and Human Trafficking In The Western Hemisphere' report or for more information on please visit www.internationalparentalchildabduction.com
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Best Strategy to Prevent Human Trafficking: FAIR TRADE
How does buying Fair Trade fight Human Trafficking?
The implications of Fair Trade are far-reaching. Simple purchases of ethically produced products allow each of us to actively contribute to the restoration of global injustice. Maybe this correlation will stir and motivate you to begin buying Fair Trade.
Human Trafficking, also known as modern-day slavery is the second largest and fastest growing criminal industry in the world today. It is estimated that 27 million people are currently enslaved in various forms of sexual and labor exploitation …more than at the height of the trans-atlantic slave
trade (Kevin Bales, www.freetheslaves.net).
trade (Kevin Bales, www.freetheslaves.net).
According to the 2009 Trafficking in Persons Report, “The movement to stop human trafficking includes significant efforts to address factors that ‘push’ victims into being trafficked, but also recognizes a ‘pull’ factor as part of the cause…One key to addressing such demand is raising awareness about the existence of forced labor in the production of goods…In the global marketplace for goods, ensuring that complex supply chains are untainted by forced labor is a challenge for both businesses and consumers…Any successful effort to combat human trafficking must confront not only the supply of trafficked humans, but also the demand for forced labor and commercial sex that fuels it.”
The easiest and most effective way to combat human trafficking is to continually use your
consumer power to support abolition with your wallet by purchasing fair trade certified products made by survivors of human trafficking.
consumer power to support abolition with your wallet by purchasing fair trade certified products made by survivors of human trafficking.
Fair Trade Certified products are slave free, child-labor-free, and exploitation free. Adults are paid a fair living wage so their children can go to school…they don’t work to help support their families.
The CNN Freedom Project lists various ways to find out and ensure that the products we consume are slavery free.
See the 4/6/2011 CNN Freedom Project (Video) Julia Ormond: Slavery like virus in supply chain.
In this video, actress Julia Ormond, who has been an anti human trafficking activist for several decades, talks about how the consumer, government and business all play roles in ensuring the supply chain for goods is free of slavery."
Quality Assurance and Food Safety STR RS Helps with California Transparency in Supply Chains Act Compliance. By January 2012, major manufacturers and retailers within the state of California must fully disclose the efforts made to ensure their products have not been tainted by slavery or forced labor at any point within the supply chain. http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/2011/04/05/how-california-fights-trafficking/. For more information on this new California law requiring companies to disclose what efforts they are taking to fight slavery within their production chains, see http://www.qualityassurancemag.com/qa-040711-STR-RS-helps-with-California-Transparency-in-supply-chains-act-compliance.aspx
Further, under the Abolition of Child Commerce, Exploitation and Sexual Slavery Act of 2011, an additional $25,000 for the Victim-Witness Assistance Fund would be inflicted on any individual in the state who is convicted of committing a sex crime against a victim who is under 16 years of age. It would also apply to anyone who attempts to or does have sexual relations with a prostitute under the age of 16. http://www.onenewsnow.com/Politics/Default.aspx?id=1323460
I believe most people are willing to pay slightly more for goods produced free of exploitation, and encourage readers to make informed buying decisions. Thank you for your interest and support of Survivor On A Mission. Be aware, stay safe and stay blessed.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Chocolate Lover's CALL to ACTION
As a chocoholic, with a heavy heart I say good-bye to two of my longtime staple foods: Reeses peanut butter cups and Whoppers...both produced by Hersheys. The great American chocolate bar and giant among U.S. candymakers sources cocoa through supply chains exploiting the worst forms of child labor, according to Tulane University. I thought YOU deserve to know, so YOU can make informed buying decisions.
Since 2006, under contract with the US Department of Labor, Tulane has monitored industry progress in implementing Harkin-Engel protocol to produce Fair Trade Certified chocolate. Nestle and Mars are upgrading policies and procedures, making steady progress to ensure the integrity of their supply chain. Hershey's REFUSES. Much of the worlds chocolate is sourced from the Ivory Coast where it is likely child slaves were involved. These kids don't go to school or play with their friends. They are purchased by slavemasters who program them to believe they work for their keep. Not "room and board" as we would think...they are kept in horrific living conditions, working 12-14 hours a day then left to beg for food. No such thing as a restful night's sleep, no medical care. Nobody cares or advocates for these children.
Before becoming aware, I patronized Hershey's and the exploitation of these precious children and it's left a bitter taste in my mouth. Today I ask you to join me in choosing alternative chocolate products, sending a powerful message with your pocketbook. For those of us in the U.S. on modest budgets, look for products by Mars or Nestle. Another of my longtime favorites (now replacing Reeses peanut butter cups and Whoppers) is M & M's, made by Mars, using fair trade certified chocolate.
The food/fuel we take into our bodies is energetically colored by its processing. I urge readers to consider choosing fair trade certified cocoa and other food products to nurture a sweeter spirit within. For the ultimate chocolate experience, enjoy DIVINE chocolate, now available in the U.S. At http://www.divine.com/ you will discover what makes their chocolate divine! While it may not be your everyday staple food/chocolate product, I find the indulgence unmistakenly and simply DIVINE.
Some say "We are what we eat". Like a negative experience, it can make you bitter or it can make you better...and YOU deserve the best! Join me in fueling yourself with certified chocolate...good riddens Reeses.
Since 2006, under contract with the US Department of Labor, Tulane has monitored industry progress in implementing Harkin-Engel protocol to produce Fair Trade Certified chocolate. Nestle and Mars are upgrading policies and procedures, making steady progress to ensure the integrity of their supply chain. Hershey's REFUSES. Much of the worlds chocolate is sourced from the Ivory Coast where it is likely child slaves were involved. These kids don't go to school or play with their friends. They are purchased by slavemasters who program them to believe they work for their keep. Not "room and board" as we would think...they are kept in horrific living conditions, working 12-14 hours a day then left to beg for food. No such thing as a restful night's sleep, no medical care. Nobody cares or advocates for these children.
Before becoming aware, I patronized Hershey's and the exploitation of these precious children and it's left a bitter taste in my mouth. Today I ask you to join me in choosing alternative chocolate products, sending a powerful message with your pocketbook. For those of us in the U.S. on modest budgets, look for products by Mars or Nestle. Another of my longtime favorites (now replacing Reeses peanut butter cups and Whoppers) is M & M's, made by Mars, using fair trade certified chocolate.
The food/fuel we take into our bodies is energetically colored by its processing. I urge readers to consider choosing fair trade certified cocoa and other food products to nurture a sweeter spirit within. For the ultimate chocolate experience, enjoy DIVINE chocolate, now available in the U.S. At http://www.divine.com/ you will discover what makes their chocolate divine! While it may not be your everyday staple food/chocolate product, I find the indulgence unmistakenly and simply DIVINE.
Some say "We are what we eat". Like a negative experience, it can make you bitter or it can make you better...and YOU deserve the best! Join me in fueling yourself with certified chocolate...good riddens Reeses.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Near fatal ordeal inspired Survivor On A Mission
As you may know, Survivor On A Mission was inspired by the near fatal ordeal my adoptive mother and I endured in Federal Way, WA. Before the 2003 passing of our beloved Edward (husband/father), Mom's cognitive abilities fell sharply due to a series of strokes. An only child, I was responsible for Mom. When she fell and broke her hip less than 6 weeks after Dad passed, horrific and almost unbelievable series of circumstances ensued. In my state of shock, grief and overwhelm, I failed to recognize we were the targeted prey of a man I met in Honolulu who introduced himself as a nurse who had run adult family homes in Washington State.
Leaving the gorry details aside, our experience in no way reflected the agreed arrangement. Completely isolated and "conditioned", there seemed no way to escape captivity. Enduring daily torture, my injuries included 5 broken ribs, fractured pelvis, broken nose and jaw. I was too physically disabled to care for my mother. Regaining consciousness after strangulation, finally I realized if I didn't escape we would both die there. There was no alternative to leaving my bedridden mother with the monster who held us captive.
Mom had intermittently been on hospice care over the last six years of her life. While hospice supports surviving family as well as the patient in transition, Mom rebounded repeatedly and in the end, her passing the morning before Thanksgiving stunned me. I got the call from Franciscan Hospice in the afternoon of Nov. 23rd. I was in SoCal, and Mom was just outside of Seattle which was paralyzed by an early winter storm. Mom passed in less than 14 hours...before I could get there. She and her beloved Edward were together for Thanksgiving. Bedridden since breaking her hip, she is blessed to be in a better place. Nurses held the phone to Mom's ear as I vowed our ordeal was not in vain. Survivor On A Mission advocacy and awareness warms others in vulnerable circumstances to recognize red flag warnings and potentially deadly pitfalls of falling prey to a con-artist.
Our case met the technical definition of human trafficking as well as near fatal domestic abuse. Culminating four years of legal proceedings, our captor was sentenced in 2009 to 30 years at WallaWalla. As you may imagine, severe post-traumatic implications will have live-long effect. I've been blessed to receive training from Great Life Technologies as a Trauma Resolution Specialist which provided incredible self-healing and allows me to support others in their post-traumatic shift from Survive to Thrive.
Survivor On A Mission provides education, advocacy and resource coordination to survivors of abuse, abduction, rape, human trafficking and other traumas. Your tax deductible contributions are sincerely appreciated. Be Aware, Stay Safe, and share in a blessed holiday season and year ahead.
Leaving the gorry details aside, our experience in no way reflected the agreed arrangement. Completely isolated and "conditioned", there seemed no way to escape captivity. Enduring daily torture, my injuries included 5 broken ribs, fractured pelvis, broken nose and jaw. I was too physically disabled to care for my mother. Regaining consciousness after strangulation, finally I realized if I didn't escape we would both die there. There was no alternative to leaving my bedridden mother with the monster who held us captive.
Mom had intermittently been on hospice care over the last six years of her life. While hospice supports surviving family as well as the patient in transition, Mom rebounded repeatedly and in the end, her passing the morning before Thanksgiving stunned me. I got the call from Franciscan Hospice in the afternoon of Nov. 23rd. I was in SoCal, and Mom was just outside of Seattle which was paralyzed by an early winter storm. Mom passed in less than 14 hours...before I could get there. She and her beloved Edward were together for Thanksgiving. Bedridden since breaking her hip, she is blessed to be in a better place. Nurses held the phone to Mom's ear as I vowed our ordeal was not in vain. Survivor On A Mission advocacy and awareness warms others in vulnerable circumstances to recognize red flag warnings and potentially deadly pitfalls of falling prey to a con-artist.
Our case met the technical definition of human trafficking as well as near fatal domestic abuse. Culminating four years of legal proceedings, our captor was sentenced in 2009 to 30 years at WallaWalla. As you may imagine, severe post-traumatic implications will have live-long effect. I've been blessed to receive training from Great Life Technologies as a Trauma Resolution Specialist which provided incredible self-healing and allows me to support others in their post-traumatic shift from Survive to Thrive.
Survivor On A Mission provides education, advocacy and resource coordination to survivors of abuse, abduction, rape, human trafficking and other traumas. Your tax deductible contributions are sincerely appreciated. Be Aware, Stay Safe, and share in a blessed holiday season and year ahead.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Be A Hero For Sara
Today, YOU have the opportunity to be a hero in the life of Sara Kruzan…a survivor of human trafficking. The daughter of a drug addict, at age 11 Sara was first introduced to a then 31-year old man who began conditioning /brainwashing her for exploitation. At 13, he first raped her then forced her into prostitution. After 3 years, Sara snapped and shot him. Years before the passage of the TVPA, Sara was sentenced to life without parole. Now 32, Sara has spent half of her life in prison and has requested Governor Schwarzenegger to invoke his discretionary authority to commute her sentence in her pending clemency plea. Consistently, Sara has proven to be a model prisoner; she completed her college degree during incarceration and has experienced unparalleled personal growth.
Read Sara’s story. Included below is an excerpt from her letter to the governor and links to well-researched media coverage about Sara. U.S. residents from all states and territories are encouraged to sign the electronic petition while personal letters to Gov. Schwarzenegger from the global community will have greatest impact on Sara’s behalf. I’ve posted the letter I wrote and will continue posting letters from compassionate friends who have shared their letters with me for YOU to use as an example.
Sara’s plea, in her own words, follows.
“My Life began on January 8, 1978, in Los Angeles, California. I was born to a mother who brought me into this world unwed and unsure of her decision to keep me. I grew up in Monrovia, California, in a two bedroom duplex directly across the street from my elementary school. I have fond memories of entering a drawing contest, riding my bike and learning how to cut roses the right way from my elderly neighbor. As I write this letter though, my happy memories are far and few in between, I cannot move forward until I can express what I must sincerely convey.”
“My childhood memories are a reminder to me that George Howard was a father himself. That he had a son and his son no longer has a father because of my actions. George was a son himself and what I have done and the remorse I feel will never go away, nor do I wish it to. I feel a deep set sorrow for taking George's life. It is daily I experience a level of grief and sadness in my heart and in my thoughts. However, as I mentioned I do not want this emotion to go away. It is a part of who I am today and I have utilized it to grow in a healthy manner. It is through the aid of intense therapy, self help groups and inspiration readings such as "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl.”
“Through these inner struggles, it became a challenge for me that the feelings of remorse I hold for George are also for the young child I once was who was abused on many levels by him. I really want this letter to be about the person I am today, rather than about the pain and abuse I suffered in the past. But I know that abuse still remains a part of who I am today. I endured mental and physical abuse from my mother at a very early age. I also was sexually abused by many people. This includes George Howard, who first sexually assaulted me when I was eleven years old and who began sexually trafficking me when I was thirteen years old. This continued until I was 16 years old. I was two months past my sixteenth birthday when I shot and killed George.”
“When I first arrived at Central California Women's Facility I was eighteen years old and unsure of my new home. I carried within me the pain and rage from my past. There was a struggle inside me though that wanted to develop. There was a young Sara who was the track runner, student body president and person who even wrote about Drugs and its Effects that wanted to grow. However in prison without strong guidance it’s easier to let emotions of pain and anger out. After several years of my incarceration that strong guidance found me. Her name is Lt. Z. Cooper. What she did was plant seeds of encouragement. Her words gave me the strength I needed to desire to no longer feel empty inside. I discovered many positive outlets for myself. More self help groups were offered and I signed up for them. There groups helped me set healthy boundaries for myself. Even though I cannot change the blue print of my past, but I am able to build a foundation that's planted within.”
“Today at thirty-two years old I am not a victim. And that young girl I felt inside me before has grown and developed and is able to express herself in the woman I am today. And the woman I am today is able and capable of making healthy choices for myself. No longer will I compromise who I am for others. Today I can and do lead a life of example for others. If I am given the opportunity to rejoin society I know I will make the most of it. Just like I have made the most and continued to make the most of my life here. I am requesting a commutation of my sentence based on my history of abuse, my youthful age and vulnerability at the time of the crime and because of the person I am today. It is with love I seek to be forgiven, it is with love I have forgiven all who have hurt me. I sincerely request to be forgiven for the harm and pain I have caused. I appreciate this opportunity to have the time to explain a bit about myself to you and respectfully request a grant of clemency.”
I know Sara is a hero and a powerful advocate whose ordeal has not been in vain. Join me now, in advocating on her behalf… as a personal favor to me. What if she were your child, your sister or niece? Urge Governor Schwarzenegger to liberate Sara as part of his legacy. Collectively, we hold the power to influence Gov. Schwarzenegger’s consideration. Step up and take time to show that you care and what you stand up for. As of 10/6 there were 1,175 signatures on the electronic petition. Message me with your signature number… better yet, copy me the letter you mail with your consent for me to include it as a sample for other concerned citizens. Thank you, in advance. Your awareness, interest and action is crucial and genuinely appreciated.
Survivor On A Mission is in pre-launch of Heroes In Training which empowers ordinary and extraordinary people around the world to be heroes, saving or transforming lives. Visit www.HeroesInTraining.info or www.SurvivorOnAMission.org for additional information and share in a blessed week ahead.http://www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/about/TVPA_2000.pdf
Read Sara’s story. Included below is an excerpt from her letter to the governor and links to well-researched media coverage about Sara. U.S. residents from all states and territories are encouraged to sign the electronic petition while personal letters to Gov. Schwarzenegger from the global community will have greatest impact on Sara’s behalf. I’ve posted the letter I wrote and will continue posting letters from compassionate friends who have shared their letters with me for YOU to use as an example.
Sara’s plea, in her own words, follows.
“My Life began on January 8, 1978, in Los Angeles, California. I was born to a mother who brought me into this world unwed and unsure of her decision to keep me. I grew up in Monrovia, California, in a two bedroom duplex directly across the street from my elementary school. I have fond memories of entering a drawing contest, riding my bike and learning how to cut roses the right way from my elderly neighbor. As I write this letter though, my happy memories are far and few in between, I cannot move forward until I can express what I must sincerely convey.”
“My childhood memories are a reminder to me that George Howard was a father himself. That he had a son and his son no longer has a father because of my actions. George was a son himself and what I have done and the remorse I feel will never go away, nor do I wish it to. I feel a deep set sorrow for taking George's life. It is daily I experience a level of grief and sadness in my heart and in my thoughts. However, as I mentioned I do not want this emotion to go away. It is a part of who I am today and I have utilized it to grow in a healthy manner. It is through the aid of intense therapy, self help groups and inspiration readings such as "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl.”
“Through these inner struggles, it became a challenge for me that the feelings of remorse I hold for George are also for the young child I once was who was abused on many levels by him. I really want this letter to be about the person I am today, rather than about the pain and abuse I suffered in the past. But I know that abuse still remains a part of who I am today. I endured mental and physical abuse from my mother at a very early age. I also was sexually abused by many people. This includes George Howard, who first sexually assaulted me when I was eleven years old and who began sexually trafficking me when I was thirteen years old. This continued until I was 16 years old. I was two months past my sixteenth birthday when I shot and killed George.”
“When I first arrived at Central California Women's Facility I was eighteen years old and unsure of my new home. I carried within me the pain and rage from my past. There was a struggle inside me though that wanted to develop. There was a young Sara who was the track runner, student body president and person who even wrote about Drugs and its Effects that wanted to grow. However in prison without strong guidance it’s easier to let emotions of pain and anger out. After several years of my incarceration that strong guidance found me. Her name is Lt. Z. Cooper. What she did was plant seeds of encouragement. Her words gave me the strength I needed to desire to no longer feel empty inside. I discovered many positive outlets for myself. More self help groups were offered and I signed up for them. There groups helped me set healthy boundaries for myself. Even though I cannot change the blue print of my past, but I am able to build a foundation that's planted within.”
“Today at thirty-two years old I am not a victim. And that young girl I felt inside me before has grown and developed and is able to express herself in the woman I am today. And the woman I am today is able and capable of making healthy choices for myself. No longer will I compromise who I am for others. Today I can and do lead a life of example for others. If I am given the opportunity to rejoin society I know I will make the most of it. Just like I have made the most and continued to make the most of my life here. I am requesting a commutation of my sentence based on my history of abuse, my youthful age and vulnerability at the time of the crime and because of the person I am today. It is with love I seek to be forgiven, it is with love I have forgiven all who have hurt me. I sincerely request to be forgiven for the harm and pain I have caused. I appreciate this opportunity to have the time to explain a bit about myself to you and respectfully request a grant of clemency.”
I know Sara is a hero and a powerful advocate whose ordeal has not been in vain. Join me now, in advocating on her behalf… as a personal favor to me. What if she were your child, your sister or niece? Urge Governor Schwarzenegger to liberate Sara as part of his legacy. Collectively, we hold the power to influence Gov. Schwarzenegger’s consideration. Step up and take time to show that you care and what you stand up for. As of 10/6 there were 1,175 signatures on the electronic petition. Message me with your signature number… better yet, copy me the letter you mail with your consent for me to include it as a sample for other concerned citizens. Thank you, in advance. Your awareness, interest and action is crucial and genuinely appreciated.
Survivor On A Mission is in pre-launch of Heroes In Training which empowers ordinary and extraordinary people around the world to be heroes, saving or transforming lives. Visit www.HeroesInTraining.info or www.SurvivorOnAMission.org for additional information and share in a blessed week ahead.http://www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/about/TVPA_2000.pdf
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Hero Qualities Transform Lives...the HERO in YOU
Ramping up for launch of Heroes In Training, my colleage/consultant/advisor in terms of technical application of trauma resolution provided me with an anchoring session yesterday. Thank you, Magi Speelpenning, for your valuable advice! Heroes in Training empowers everyday people, through awareness and preparation, to step up and become a hero...saving or transfoming lives.
We don't have to be trained firefighters, martial arts experts, or even CPR certified to save a life. A perfectly placed anonymous phone call is frequently all it takes. As a survivor of near fatal domestic abuse, repeated rape and human trafficking, I recognize how sociopaths are able to condition anyone to comply with a brutal, morbid existence...quietly. With my background in social services, I'm answering the call to extend what will serve as a solution for many trapped in such an existence.
Magi reminded me of four qualities inherent in heroes...anchoring these characteristics in our daily lives enhances every life and group we come in contact with...COURAGE, COMPASSION, LOVE and HONOR. In your home, your community, your workplace or in your travels, these qualities are YOUR GIFT to humanity.
On Thursday, September 29, 2010, I have the honor of guesting on Ken King's radio program and will highlight Heroes In Training, designed to compliment Survivor On A Mission. Heroes In Training will enlist corporate support from organizations like UPS, FedEX, Time Warner, utility and public works companies, all types of installers and delivery workers to name a few...empowering everyday people to step up and be a hero simply through their awareness and preparation.
Know the indicators and the number to call when possibilities of abuse, rape, trafficking, or risk of suicide occur on YOUR watch. Recognize survivors of these and other atrocities are frequently plagued with post traumataic stress which can be resolved through countless therapy-free holistic techniques as well as more traditional therapy. Envision yourself as the conduit, guiding the "victim" from SURVIVE to THRIVE!
One in 4 women reports abuse during her lifetime, one in 3 women experiences rape during her college career. The person YOU assist, may well be someone YOU love. Each of us is precious. Thank you for your interest and support. Visit www.survivoronamission.org for more information. BE AWARE, STAY SAFE, STAY BLESSED...YOU are LOVED!
We don't have to be trained firefighters, martial arts experts, or even CPR certified to save a life. A perfectly placed anonymous phone call is frequently all it takes. As a survivor of near fatal domestic abuse, repeated rape and human trafficking, I recognize how sociopaths are able to condition anyone to comply with a brutal, morbid existence...quietly. With my background in social services, I'm answering the call to extend what will serve as a solution for many trapped in such an existence.
Magi reminded me of four qualities inherent in heroes...anchoring these characteristics in our daily lives enhances every life and group we come in contact with...COURAGE, COMPASSION, LOVE and HONOR. In your home, your community, your workplace or in your travels, these qualities are YOUR GIFT to humanity.
On Thursday, September 29, 2010, I have the honor of guesting on Ken King's radio program and will highlight Heroes In Training, designed to compliment Survivor On A Mission. Heroes In Training will enlist corporate support from organizations like UPS, FedEX, Time Warner, utility and public works companies, all types of installers and delivery workers to name a few...empowering everyday people to step up and be a hero simply through their awareness and preparation.
Know the indicators and the number to call when possibilities of abuse, rape, trafficking, or risk of suicide occur on YOUR watch. Recognize survivors of these and other atrocities are frequently plagued with post traumataic stress which can be resolved through countless therapy-free holistic techniques as well as more traditional therapy. Envision yourself as the conduit, guiding the "victim" from SURVIVE to THRIVE!
One in 4 women reports abuse during her lifetime, one in 3 women experiences rape during her college career. The person YOU assist, may well be someone YOU love. Each of us is precious. Thank you for your interest and support. Visit www.survivoronamission.org for more information. BE AWARE, STAY SAFE, STAY BLESSED...YOU are LOVED!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Flattery may lead to abduction...w/ Sam Watkins BTR
Honored to guest on Sam Watkins BTR, Tues. Sept. 7th, I'll be discussing red flag indicators that flattery may lead to abduction. Recorded from 7-9PM Central time, Sam dedicates the first half hour to missing/awareness updates...I'll be on @7:30 Central, 5:30 PM Pacific. Although teens are most vulnerable, anyone can become prey to an abductor. Abductors are master manipulators. They sense their opportunity when we are at risk. Few think this way, so we just don't see it coming. It may be a seemingly mild-mannered lady, not always the stereo-typed thug, who draws in the "victim". Their motivation is MONEY. Human trafficking is a 31 billion dollar a year industry. Often "victims" are sucked into the sex trade, tho thousands are lured to work as domestics, agricultural workers, in production/manufacturing or countless other industries. Any time fraud, force or coersion is used to exploit one sexually or the fruits of their labor, it's trafficking.
Because the risk is low and profits ridiculously high, gangs and organized crime are heavily involved. Often activities are parallel to drug or weapons trade...these networks are well-established. Anyone who displays/reveals a need to provide for themself and/or others can be lured into the web. Runaways, foster children, and immigrants desperate for a better life are frequently targeted...sometimes lured from gas stations or supermarket parking lots by a seemingly generous offer. The abductor typically hands off his prey to someone in his/her channel. Emotional brainwashing or conditioning is facilitated through deprivation of sleep and food, cemented with physical force. Conditioning is so thorough, prey endures silently even if they are offered help. The level of trauma that ensues can be paralyzing. In most areas, local law enforcement does not recognize or know how to handle these situations. Simply by placing an anonomous call to 888-3737-888, the Human Trafficking Hotline, YOU can be a hero. YOU can save or transform a life.
We'll go in depth during the program, and I'll describe Tomorrows Heroes In Training which bridges community members and corporate America to the social services arena I've dedicated the past 20 years of my life to. I recognize many don't want to hear about the gloom and doom of human trafficking, abuse or abduction...yet you don't need to be trained as a fireman or defense expert to save or transform a life. Now recruitting: Tomorrow's Heroes In Training. Enrollment and subscription opportunities will be unveiled shortly, thanks to a team of incredible coaches and mentors who genuinely and whole-heartedly support the vision.
Visit www.survivoronamission.org or http://survivoronamission.blogspot.com Be aware and be safe. Blessings to you and yours; each one of you is precious to me. This world needs YOU!
Because the risk is low and profits ridiculously high, gangs and organized crime are heavily involved. Often activities are parallel to drug or weapons trade...these networks are well-established. Anyone who displays/reveals a need to provide for themself and/or others can be lured into the web. Runaways, foster children, and immigrants desperate for a better life are frequently targeted...sometimes lured from gas stations or supermarket parking lots by a seemingly generous offer. The abductor typically hands off his prey to someone in his/her channel. Emotional brainwashing or conditioning is facilitated through deprivation of sleep and food, cemented with physical force. Conditioning is so thorough, prey endures silently even if they are offered help. The level of trauma that ensues can be paralyzing. In most areas, local law enforcement does not recognize or know how to handle these situations. Simply by placing an anonomous call to 888-3737-888, the Human Trafficking Hotline, YOU can be a hero. YOU can save or transform a life.
We'll go in depth during the program, and I'll describe Tomorrows Heroes In Training which bridges community members and corporate America to the social services arena I've dedicated the past 20 years of my life to. I recognize many don't want to hear about the gloom and doom of human trafficking, abuse or abduction...yet you don't need to be trained as a fireman or defense expert to save or transform a life. Now recruitting: Tomorrow's Heroes In Training. Enrollment and subscription opportunities will be unveiled shortly, thanks to a team of incredible coaches and mentors who genuinely and whole-heartedly support the vision.
Visit www.survivoronamission.org or http://survivoronamission.blogspot.com Be aware and be safe. Blessings to you and yours; each one of you is precious to me. This world needs YOU!
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