By Kaitlyn Holdmeyer, Regional Communications Manager, Provinces of New York/Toronto, Central South, and Mid-North America
On July 17, Good Shepherd sisters and partners-in-mission joined voices across the United States for National Advocacy Day, standing in solidarity with the National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd et le Alliance to End Human Trafficking (l'Alliance pour mettre fin à la Traite des Êtres Humains). Together, they lifted up one clear message: no one should ever be subjected to exploitation, abuse, or modern-day slavery.
Throughout the day, several sisters and partners met directly with their local Senate and House representatives, advocating for stronger protections to prevent human trafficking, including efforts to build stronger online and social media safeguards for children, protect those at risk, and ensure survivors receive the support and resources they need to heal and reclaim their lives.
For Sr. Barbara Beasley, it was her first experience stepping into the world of legislative advocacy, which is an inspiring extension of Good Shepherd’s core value de Individual Worth. “No person should be subjected to disrespect, abuse, or exploitation,” she shared. “It is part of our mission to help free individuals from anything that robs them of their potential, their hopes, and their God-given dignity. »
Her experience was both eye-opening and energizing. “I have only ever seen the legislative process from afar, usually through the news,” she reflected. “To experience it up close reminded me that the process is deeply human, imperfect, and sometimes flawed, yet still capable of achieving good for people and the world. Legislators are people whose minds can change for the better. And while their staff may be trained to be polite and accommodating, advocacy truly does work. »
Walking through the Capitol, Sr. Barbara felt a surge of hope and determination. “The atmosphere is exhilarating. People are always on the move, yet there is also a sense of welcome. The beautiful architecture reminds me of the power we have, when we act together, to shape a better future for all.”
This past Advocacy Day was a clear reminder that confronting the systems that exploit human beings requires more than words; it demands collective courage, action, and solidarity. While not everyone can directly engage with the U.S. government, every member of our Good Shepherd family worldwide can stand with us in spirit and in action.
By raising awareness in our communities, supporting local and international anti-trafficking efforts, and praying for the success of just policies, each of us can help break the cycle of trafficking and support survivors on their journey to freedom and dignity.
Together, across borders and cultures, we strive to build a world where every person’s worth is protected and celebrated. Let us continue to raise our voices, wherever we are, for justice, dignity, and hope for all people.
Learn more about the Sisters of the Good Shepherd in North America and about the National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd .
