John Drake: “the abolition of slavery was never fully achieved in our country, or anywhere else in the world. While the slavery that…”

“the abolition of slavery was never fully achieved in our country, or anywhere else in the world. While the slavery that exists today looks different from the slavery of our country's past, it is still a widespread, horrific reality. Human trafficking is modern-day slavery. It manifests itself in many forms: forced and bonded labor, sex slavery, and even militant activity, as has been seen with child soldiers. I am outraged that such an offense against humanity and against the ideals of our country is allowed to flourish on our soil and abroad. As the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Human Trafficking, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor to H.R. 3887. This reauthorization brings renewed attention to the fight against human trafficking. Mr. Speaker, trafficking is a shared global problem which will require a global response. Congress has rightly taken the lead in putting this issue on the international agenda. Human trafficking is an issue that transcends political ideology and every faith. We have a moral imperative to put an end to this modern-day slavery. For this reason, I support H.R. 3887, because I believe it will put us on the right path to finally abolishing slavery in our country and around the world. Mr. Speaker, only through increasing public awareness to this global problem and demanding action will we bring an end to slavery.”