Two representatives from Courage House Hawaii, Jessica Munoz and Kaleo Schneider, spoke to students about the problem of human trafficking, not only in other countries and on the mainland but also in Hawaii. Human trafficking is the selling of a person to another person or group for sexual slavery or forced labor. The representatives talked about the trade of women and girls for sexual exploitation young girls being bought and sold, ordered online, purchased in massage parlors and working the streets for ‘pimps.’ Unlike drugs which are only sold once, a young girl can be bought and sold multiple times.

Munoz and Schneider talked about the statistics of the vast number of girls and women being trafficked in the islands. They identified the signs of people being groomed which students should recognize.

They also shared about their own organization Courage House Hawaii. Courage House Hawaii is a home where girls rescued from sex trafficking are safe and have a place to heal from their physical, spiritual and emotional wounds.

Many students were surprised to learn how much this problem affects Hawaii. The presentation was a call to be more alert and aware while out with friends.

“I was really surprised to find out that Pearlridge was a dangerous place to be in. I spend a lot of time in that area with friends, and I work there sometimes late into the night. This presentation made me pay more attention to my surroundings and what others are doing around me,” said senior Kimberly Milar.

Sophomore Megan Garcia had similar views.

“The presentation made me cautious of others. I didn’t know that human trafficking was such a big deal in the United States, let alone Hawaii. I now know many of the signs that I should look out for and will apply them when dealing with people,” said Garcia.

“It’s really comforting knowing there are groups out there who care for the victims of human trafficking and not treat them as the culprits. The presentation was very informative, and I am now more aware because of it,” said freshman Maya Waldrep.

The presentation made students aware of this growing problem and calls students to help spread awareness. It also calls students to help those who may be involved in this and contribute to the progress that courage house is making.