Anti-Trafficking Organizations Alert Financial Suspension Might Facilitate Modern Slavery
A consortium of 74 religious, legal, and support organizations across the US has sounded warnings regarding the withholding of $88m in public money earmarked for victims of modern slavery.
Assistance Programs Under Threat
Per a joint letter, the Justice Department has frozen financial support for in excess of 100 assistance organizations that assist individuals break free from exploiters and access necessary resources including housing, counseling, and case management.
"Letting this money to vanish would enable human trafficking and endanger victims," the document warns. "Numerous areas will lose their sole assistance organization, leaving survivors with insecure living conditions."
Urgent Request
The alliance is pressuring Congress to encourage the federal government to release the allocated money to support numerous affected individuals throughout the US.
This appeal is in response to investigations that the national leadership has reduced programs to address human trafficking, even as spokespersons reject any pullback on human rights policies.
Effects on Local Areas
- Many assistance providers lost their financial backing starting the end of last month.
- Lacking financial support, individuals may be denied to essential support such as safe shelter, counseling, and advocacy.
- Exploiters could operate with impunity, making communities less safe.
Government Response
When asked about concerns over the delayed allocation, the department clarified that funds allocated by lawmakers would be distributed in due course, but noted that previous grantees wouldn’t necessarily receive funding in the coming years.
Future appropriations are to be determined in accordance with the government's priorities, the department explained.
Historical Support
The document additionally points out that Congress has consistently supported to fund these services over the past 25 years, emphasizing the critical importance of properly financing crucial support systems to safeguard victims and prevent re-exploitation.
