Saturday morning on Celebration Plaza approximately 20 people walked to bring awareness and raise funds to support the mission of A21, an organization that seeks to abolish human trafficking in the 21st century. The local Walk For Freedom was one of over 457 walks in cities around the world within a 24 hour period.
Carrie Knuckolls, local realtor and an organizer of the event, said there are millions of men, women, and children around the world who are slaves today. There are more slaves today than any other time in human history. With only 1% of victim ever recovered, human trafficking is the fastest growing crime in the world.
Victims as young of two and three years of age have been rescued. Those trafficked are used for sex, labor, begging, and other ways.
Those who participated in the walk are planning to participate next year to continue the awareness of human trafficking. Knuckolls said all are created on purpose and for a purpose. She noted that those walking this weekend are motivated by a Christian mind-set that values the lives of all people.