By Michael V. Crismali, Correspondent
East Windsor Township presented a proclamation to Patricia Hart of Womanspace highlighting January as human trafficking awareness month., The township has taken part in this for the oast couple of years. Mayor Janice Mironov explained that human trafficking is a subject that people generally assume is happening only in other countries rather than in the United States., According to the mayor, it’s a situation that does occur throughout the world, but is very prevalent in our country as well, and New Jersey in particular, due in large part to all the modes of transportation available., This proclamation was presented to Ms. Hart and all the members of Womanspace as an opportunity to discuss this issue and some of the specifics that people may not know, including some of the outreach and proactive measures being taken to make resources available to victims of this crime., The mayor said after the proclamation reading that it is sad that the township has to recognize such a subject matter, but she is enthusiastic about supporting and sharing the efforts of Womanspace in addressing it., Ms. Hart reiterated the mayor’s sentiments that there is widespread belief this this crime is happening “somewhere else,” when in reality it is happening in greater frequency right in our home state. She said she was thankful for the opportunity to build awareness, and East Windsor Township’s support in doing so., Womanspace is part of a network in New Jersey that helps to identify victims of human trafficking so that once a victim is identified, Womanspace can be contacted right away to help offer the support needed by the victim. Ms. Hart explained that the most important aspect of helping victims is giving them a voice when they may not otherwise have one., If you are in crisis, and need to speak with someone, call the Womanspace hotline at609-394-9000. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the volunteer coordinator at 609-394-0136.
