At the close of Women’s History Month in the USA this Lent, we are called to focus not only on celebrating the incredible contributions of women but also on addressing the injustices they continue to face globally. Among these challenges, the trafficking of women and girls stands as a stark violation of the dignity of each person. It is a crime that strips individuals of their worth, turning human lives into commodities for exploitation.
In his message this year for the International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking, Pope Francis emphasized the devastating impact of human trafficking on women and girls, who make up the majority of its victims. He spoke about how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, teaches us first of all to listen, with closeness and compassion, to the people who have experienced trafficking, to help them get back on their feet and, together with them, to identify the best ways to free others and to do prevention.
The Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd’s clear position on trafficking prioritizes solidarity with victims through trauma-informed care, holistic recovery programs, and empowerment strategies aimed at reintegration into society. In collaboration with governments, NGOs, and communities, we actively advocate for policies and legislation to prevent trafficking, hold perpetrators accountable, and dismantle structures that perpetuate exploitation.
A Call to Action
Each victim of trafficking is a story of stolen freedom. Our Good Shepherd mission engages boldly in advocacy, education, and direct support for victims to listen to their voices, all while addressing the systemic roots of trafficking. Every step toward justice reinforces the sacred relationship we share with one another.
We urge you to pause and ask yourself what concrete steps you can take to respond to the issue of trafficking. In calling it “an open wound on the body of humanity”, Pope Francis urges unified action – reminding us that, yes, action begins with the heart but must move outward to tangible deeds.
This lent, what can you do to listen to the cries of those who have been trafficked and seek to restore dignity to those who have lost it?
