Sex trafficking is a form of modern day slavery that exists throughout the U.S. and globally. The International Labor Organization estimates that there currently are 4.5 million people trapped in forced sexual exploitation worldwide.
On Sunday, Jan. 11, a number of local Jewish organizations will come together to present a special program designed to bring the issue of sex trafficking to the attention of our community. The program will be held at 2 p.m. at Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, 610 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago.
Titled “Fighting Sex Trafficking: The Jewish Community Takes a Stand,” the program is presented by Spertus in partnership with the National Council of Jewish Women Chicago North Shore Section and the newly formed Jewish Coalition Against Sex Trafficking.
To date, JCAST members include the National Council of Jewish Women Chicago North Shore and South Cook Sections; Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation; Jewish Community Abuse Resources, Education, and Solutions; Jewish Child & Family Services; the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago; Jewish Women’s Foundation; NA’AMAT; SHALVA; and Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership.
Kaethe Morris Hoffer, executive director of the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, will moderate a panel to include Rabbi Rachel Bregman, CAASE Educator Caleb Probst, and a member of the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department.
As part of this program, the film “DEMAND” will be shown.
This documentary — made in conjunction with an investigation by Shared Hope International of the commercial sex trade in the U.S., Japan, and Jamaica — reveals the impact of buyer demand on sex trafficking. It captures the hard reality of the women and children victimized by the sex trade.
The program will be followed by a reception with advocacy organizations available to answer questions and share with attendees ways to effectively aid sex trafficking victims and take action against those who profit from sexual exploitation.
Tickets are $18 for the public, $10 for Spertus members, and $8 for students, and can be purchased at spertus.edu and by phone at (312) 322-1773. Discount parking is available for $11 with Spertus validation at the Essex Inn, two blocks south of Spertus.