News Release: Catholic Conference Applauds Release of Michigan Commission on Human Trafficking Report

(Lansing)—Michigan Catholic Conference today is applauding the many elected officials, law enforcement officers and individuals from the Michigan Commission on Human Trafficking who today, led by Attorney General Bill Schuette, gathered to announce the unveiling of its 2013 Report on Human Trafficking.

“The state as a whole and the Catholic community in particular have an obligation to defend and promote the dignity of every human person,” said Rebecca Mastee, Michigan Catholic Conference Policy Advocate. “This report from the Commission will prove indispensable toward raising awareness to the scourge of human trafficking and the victims of these crimes.”

The Commission, which was formed in March 2013, was created to pass legislation that makes it easier to apprehend human traffickers, develop a public awareness campaign, produce a statewide database to share human trafficking data, and create a single management location for prevention efforts within the Department of Attorney General, among other goals.

“Attorney General Schuette and members from both parties in the Senate and House have paved a clear path for those throughout state government to follow in the fight against human trafficking,” said Mastee. “We look forward to supporting legislative efforts in the coming weeks, including forthcoming events sponsored by State Senator Judy Emmons and members of the Legislature.”

Next Wednesday, November 13, a “Shine the Light on Human Trafficking” candlelight vigil will be held at 6:30pm at the State Capitol. The public is encouraged to attend. The 2013 Michigan Commission on Human Trafficking report to the Governor and the Legislature can be read by clicking here.

Michigan Catholic Conference is the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in this state.

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