Today's topic is not one that's easy for anyone to hear about, or discuss. But it is very real, and very necessary to do so. Like any of the ugly things in life, not talking about them doesn't make them go away. In fact, it seems to make things worse. Dirt swept under the rug doesn't vanish, after all! Human exploitation in any way, shape, or form is not okay. Child sex trafficking in particular is a nightmare for any parent to think about. No decent human being would ever wish it on their own children, or any other child. But it is something that can be found, hidden in the shadows, around the world. Even in North America. There are many ways that children find themselves victims of sex trafficking, and it is all too easy for them to fall into it in poor regions around the world.
B.A.N.K is an organization that works with a Canadian charity, Ratanak International, to rescue and rehabilitate child sex trafficking victims in Cambodia. Why Cambodia? You can find out how and why Brian McConaghy started Ratanak International by clicking here. Over the years, Ratanak International has received numerous award and recognition for their efforts in Cambodia.
To raise money and awareness, Ratanak International has a wonderful event that they would love for you to be a part of. The Buy Art, Not Kids auction aims to celebrate the connection between art and its call-to-action by showcasing art that inspires. Art has had the ability to stir emotion, tell a story, and send a message for as long as it has existed. Through this inspiring art, B.A.N.K. hopes to inspire change. Change that will make a difference for the children it helps.
Shine light on a topic that lurks in the shadows, affecting children every day. Attend the Buy Art, Not Kids auction on April 4th, 2014 in Toronto, Ontario. Buy a ticket today! Tickets are only $75, and you will be able to enjoy sumptuous food, wine, the art, and more! Not able to attend? You can still make a difference by donating today. If you do not have funds to be able to donate, share this post and information about Ratanak International with your friends, family, and more. Share this information on Facebook, Twitter, and any other social media outlets where people can be informed about this topic. You can find a list of all the ways to help Ratanak International on their "Take Action" page. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you.
Disclosure: No product or compensation of any kind was received by Found Frolicking in exchange for sharing this content. All opinions expressed are her own. Any photographs featuring a watermark are the property of Found Frolicking. If you would like to work with Found Frolicking for a review, giveaway, or for some other type of project please email Lalia at found.frolicking@gmail.com.
It is amazing to me that child sex trafficking is still occurring in the world today. It's just not something we talk about on a daily basis. It is hidden from our view. Thank you for shedding awareness and a way to help to your readers.
ReplyDeleteI agree with, Michelle! What an important topic we so often don't hear about!
ReplyDeleteSo true about the post.I support this cause
ReplyDeleteI thank you for posting this information. I will share it on facebook and twitter and hopefully this atrocity can be stopped in our lifetime.
ReplyDeleteYou hit it right on the head, because YES it is a tough subject to talk about. Heck, it's tough to just read about it, and I think that may be why it's so hard to get awareness out there. But it is sooo very important. What a terrifying reality!
ReplyDeleteThis is a hard subject to talk about. Some people live in denial. I thank you for posting this and I will share it on Facebook and Twitter.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very scary but true thing. I don't really like the title to this show, too flippant, but it certainly is for a worthy cause.
ReplyDeleteChild sex trafficking is something that would not even be on my radar if it weren't for articles like this bringing awareness. Thanks for bringing up the subject. I will share your post and hopefully bring more awareness to this issue. I realize that the fundraiser event has passed but hopefully it was a success.
ReplyDeleteYou're right. This is a topic that is hard to think about let alone discuss. I'm glad that a company like Ratanak is doing something about it. I especially like that they make it more enticing for people to participate by including art into it. Makes people remember.
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