Group raises awareness about child sex trafficking, self-defense
The Rexburg community is getting a lesson on child sex trafficking this weekend. Members from Operation Underground Railroad, the organization that rescues exploited children around the world, showed the documentary, “Operation Toussaint,” Friday night. The film is a behind the scenes look at a man-hunt and rescue the group performed in Haiti.
“It goes into what a case looks like, how to build a case, what we do once we’ve built a case, how to go in and infiltrate these dark areas of the world, rescue these kids inside, and then coordinate their aftercare,” said Tyler Schwab, the assistant director of aftercare for Operation Underground Railroad.
Saturday, there will be a self-defense class that teaches personal security awareness. They will be teaching techniques taught to members of the CIA and used around the world. O.U.R. says people need to learn because child sex trafficking happens everywhere.
“Even in a wonderful and safe town as Rexburg, Idaho we always have to watch out for human traffickers,” said Matt Osborne, the director of special projects for Operation Underground Railroad. “We have to watch out for those who will exploit children. This crime happens in every corner of the united states and around the world, but the big key is education and awareness and that’s why we’re here in rexburg.”
Finally, an event will take place tomorrow night at the Rexburg tabernacle where you can learn more about what Operation Underground Railroad does and how you can help.
“Once you hear about this topic you only have two choices,” Schwab said. “You can either do something or do nothing. And when you do nothing you’re still making a choice. And so, it’s happening, there’s no getting around it. So come out, support, we’d be happy to meet you and talk with you and hope you support our cause.”
The self-defense class is at the Madison Jr. High at 10:30 a.m. Tomorrow night’s event, Bringing Light to Darkness, is at the Rexburg Tabernacle at 7 p.m. You can learn more about Operation Underground Railroad through its website.
