Sex slave trade a growing menace

In today’s world, child sex slavery is an important term to understand thanks to its widespread presence throughout an alarming number of countries. As horrifying as it is to accept, children are being bought and sold on a market that dehumanizes, violates and abuses the innocent.

It is estimated that two children are sold every minute. As described in Somaly Mam’s book, “The Road of Lost Innocence,” girls as young 4 are forced to engage in sexual activities with older men. Myths about having sex with a virgin fuel the market for such young girls. The bodies of these children are sold over and over, but their spirit and self worth are shattered at a young age.

All adults have a responsibility to protect and care for their children. In rural places, such as Cambodia, where child sex slavery is extreme, it is not unheard of for a mother, father or husband to sell a child into slavery. Growing up in a brothel cripples the child’s ability to develop emotionally. In most cases, torture and physical abuse come hand in hand with the sexual trauma they experience every day.

Contrary to common belief, child sex slavery exists in America. According to Love146.org, a charity that fights to liberate child slaves, over 100,000 U.S. children are forcefully engaged in prostitution or pornography each year.

It is important for everyday people, blessed with their wealth and safety, to realize the severity of child sex slavery. Although citizens of rich American communities think to be far away from the problem, this establishment is spreading like wildfire. Protecting the children of this world is the responsibility of every good citizen. Please educate yourself about child sex slavery, and consider donating to put an end to this tragic institution.

Natalie Weimer

Lisle