Legislature declares January 2019 'Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Month' in Erie County

Modified: March 19, 2019 10:13am

Friday, January 18, 2019

The Erie County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution proclaiming January 2019 ‘Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Month’ in Erie County. 

In conjunction with state and nationwide efforts, human trafficking prevention and awareness month draws attention to the prevalence of human trafficking and urges people to spot the signs associated with it. According to the U.S. Institute against Human Trafficking, there are roughly 40 million victims of trafficking worldwide. 

Thursday afternoon, Legislator Dixon was joined by Legislators Barbara Miller-Williams and April Baskin to present the proclamation to Kelly Galloway of Mona’s House Project, which is an organization devoted to spreading human trafficking awareness and helping its victims. 

Kelly Galloway, Executive Director of Project Mona’s House, said, “Human Trafficking is the second largest crime on the planet affecting nearly 40 million people worldwide and grossing an estimated 150 billion dollars per year.  Although those numbers are hard to ignore, human trafficking still remains the most hidden crime on the planet.  Victims are in plain sight, even in our own communities.  Project Mona’s House is striving to create a community where people understand what trafficking is, how to spot it, and learn how they can help stop it.  We spread awareness about this this terrible crime, and help restore women who have been victimized by it.  Women come in as victims, are transformed into survivors, but by the time they leave they will be overcomers! I’m proud of the work we do!” 

Legislator Lynne Dixon said, “Unfortunately, many people are unaware of how prevalent human trafficking is, even in our region. Thank you to Kelly and everyone involved with Project Mona’s House for their ongoing efforts to combat this horrific crime and help human trafficking victims recover.” 

Legislator Joe Lorigo said, “Human trafficking is a pervasive problem throughout the world, and even in Erie County. It is important people are aware of its prevalence in order to prevent it from happening in our communities. Thank you to all law enforcement and groups like Project Mona’s House for their efforts to raise awareness and bring justice to victims.” 

Legislator John Mills said, “I applaud organizations like Project Mona’s House for their ongoing efforts to prevent human trafficking and help victims recover. It is important we support their mission by raising awareness and encouraging people to remain vigilant in order to combat this horrible crime.” 

Legislator Ed Rath said, “This is a serious issue that exists in our communities. In order to combat trafficking, we must do what we can to collaborate with local groups and law enforcement to raise awareness. We thank them for their continued efforts and our proud to offer our support.” 

More information on Project Mona’s House can be found here.  A copy of the resolution can be found here.