CORNING, N.Y. (WENY) -- This weekend, Corning will host the Walk for Freedom, an event designed to raise awareness about the local and global issue of human trafficking. The event was organized by the international anti-trafficking group A21. The walk aims to shed light on a problem that affects millions of people worldwide.
"From noon to 2 p.m. is an event called 'Walk to Freedom' and it is basically people joining together to walk to show awareness of human trafficking, it's an issue around the world but even here in Corning," says Laurence Morey, a participant in the walk.
Human trafficking isn't just about sexual exploitation, it also includes forced labor impacting vulnerable people in various ways. This isn't an issue limited to developing countries; it's happening here in the United States as well.
According to A21, the illegal business of human trafficking generates an estimated $236 billion annually. It is reported that 1 in 4 victims are children.
The Walk for Freedom is a global event happening in cities around the world, with participants walking in a single-file line wearing black shirts to symbolize solidarity with victims.
Those interested in joining the Corning event can do so by attending the event on Saturday, October 19th from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. starting at Corning's Centerway Square.