IJM’s mission to end it gains momentum

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — Grace McElmurry from the International Justice Mission (IJM) highlighted the organization’s efforts in combating human trafficking during Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

McElmurry, who traveled from Fayetteville, emphasized IJM’s role as the largest human rights organization dedicated to this cause. “It partners with local authorities to first remove victims from the situations their in, to secondly hold perpetrators accountable, to strengthen justice systems, and fourthly ensure survivors receive necessary the aftercare they need,” she said.

McElmurry shared her personal journey, revealing her commitment to raising awareness and funds through unique initiatives like running marathons and participating in the “Dress Number” campaign, where participants wear a dress every day in December. “The reality is that there’s actually more people enslaved today than there’s ever been in the history of the world,” she noted, citing 50 million people currently in modern-day slavery. “The population of Arkansas is only 3 million, so roughly that is 15 to 16% like, times bigger than the population of Arkansas that those who are still currently enslaved. “

When asked why it is important to spread awareness on human trafficking during the month of January, McElmurry said, “what people don’t realize is the industry of human trafficking actually grosses 236 billion with a B, dollars every single year. So I think it’s not oftentimes that people don’t care. It’s that they don’t know.”

IJM’s recent efforts include addressing labor trafficking and identifying scamming compounds overseas.

McElmurry urged the public to “do something” and highlighted IJM’s global presence, operating in 34 field offices across 19 countries.

“So the first would be, stay informed. It is a big issue, and just the more eyes on it, the better. So I would suggest following IJM on one of their social medias. Instagram’s my favorite. It’s a great way to learn stories and just really put some faces to names and kind of get updated on those statistics,” McElmurry said. “Additionally, I would say, support the work. It’s crazy. What just giving up your Starbucks for the day, like those little things, how much those can add up to further this goal. And then third, I would say reach out locally.”

For more information, click here or follow IJM on social media.