NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN, SACRAMENTO SECTION
TAKES ACTION ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING

As we prepare for and celebrate Passover this year,  the current story of modern day slavery resonates with the Jewish story of flight from slavery to freedom.  Today,  human trafficking  exists here in Sacramento as well as throughout the world.  This crime against humanity often exists hidden in plain sight.  Its victims are predominantly women and children who are exploited for commercial sex or labor purposes.  It is big business for the traffickers; after drug dealing human trafficking is the second largest criminal industry in the world and the fastest growing with an estimated 25-27 million slaves worldwide.  Law enforcement agencies consider Sacramento one of the most active  hubs for trafficking in the United States.

Community awareness of human trafficking can make the difference between a person's bondage and freedom.  With its deep respect for human dignity, the Jewish community can help to abolish slavery. The issue will be addressed at Shabbat services preceding Passover at area congregations.  Member Claire Lipschultz will speak at Congregation Beth Shalom-March 23, Bnai Israel-March 30, and Mosaic Law-March 31.  NCJW is sponsoring an event directed to the Jewish community on HUMAN TRAFFICKING: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT on April 23, 7-9 at KOH Library and Cultural Center,  co-sponsored by area congregations and Hadassah-Sacramento and the Rescue and Restore Coalition.

This year at the seder table consider including some prayers, practices and discussion which connect our Passover story with the plight of millions of enslaved people.  The Human Trafficking Committee has prepared a Fact Sheet and Seder Suggestions as well as information about the April 23 program for your use.