Aiken Tech to host expert panel discussion for National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Aiken Technical College will host a Unique Conversations panel discussion on human trafficking in the region, including what is being done to help victims of human trafficking and prosecute those responsible.

The free event will be held on Thursday, January 18, at 6 p.m. in the College’s amphitheater (Building 700). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Advanced registration is requested. To register, visit https://bit.ly/3v0c1Ol.

Panelists include Mandy Bowden, human trafficking program coordinator with the Office of the SC Attorney General; Maryann Burgess, executive director of the Child Advocacy Center of Aiken County; Detective Eleanor Hunt, with the Aiken Department of Public Safety; Lisa Kejr, chief executive officer with Lighthouse for Life; and Lt. Eric Kirkland, with the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office.

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. According to the South Carolina Attorney General’s 2022 Annual Human Trafficking Report, there were 440 human trafficking cases involving 416 victims throughout the state during the 2022 calendar year. Of the 416 victims, 399 were minors, 17 adults. Ninety-eight percent of the cases were related to sex trafficking.

The event is a part of the College’s Unique Conversations guest lecture series, organized by the Office of Student Success and Retention.

“It is my hope that this night of conversation will have an impact that ripples throughout our communities in many ways,” said Dean of Student Success and Retention Crystal Ratliff, Ed.D. “From our campus community to the greater CSRA, I desire to see others become educated about trafficking, recognize potential risks, and implement ways to protect themselves and their families.  I also hope to unite and provide connections to those who have an interest in or are already working to eradicate modern-day slavery.  Last but certainly not least, for anyone currently being trafficked, I hope they will hear of our efforts and realize that there are people who are fighting for them and that there is help available.”

To get help for yourself or others, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline/ Linea Nacional Contra la Trata de Personas at (888) 373-7888 or text/texto GET HELP/OBTENGA AYUDA to 233733 or visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org