Migration / Human Trafficking

The Stuart Center stands in solidarity with all those who seek a better life for themselves, their families and their children. Every day thousands of people leave behind all that is familiar in search of safety from violence or oppression. Many others dream of providing their children with access to education, healthcare and opportunities that will change the course of their lives. Others are fleeing conditions of extreme poverty and hunger. Regardless of the motive for leaving, the vast majority of migrating peoples suffer human rights violations. We recognize the dignity of each human being alongside each one’s right to live a life free from oppression and violence. We also recognize that immigration law in the US is in dire need of reform, particularly in cases where children and parents are separated from one another.

The trafficking of persons is a violent, inhumane act found with increasing prevalence worldwide. Women and children are the primary victims of trafficking. It is an atrocious violation of the rights and dignity of each person. We commit ourselves to partnering with those who work for a just and compassionate response to those who migrate and/or are trafficked. We actively seek collaborations with organizations who share our commitment to put a stop to unethical, inhumane practices and to support the health, education and general well-being of all those who suffer. We promote programs for the empowerment of men, women, youth and children to help them regain a sense of dignity and control over their lives.

The opportunity to work with the Stuart Center has been a great success for ARISE. The training helped us to define and set priorities for our organization in a more effective way. The staff of ARISE had the great opportunity to get totally engaged in the development of our new strategy, giving us a great sense of community and unity.

–Lourdes Flores, Executive Director, ARISE

RELATED RESOURCES

Fair Trade Federation

Fair Trade Federation is the trade association for businesses in the US that have pledged a transparent supply chain free from human trafficking. The website has a searchable database of companies as well as resources on fair trade. Downloadable PDF of resources for National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Talitha Kum

Talitha Kum is the global organization representing Catholics in consecrated life united in ending human trafficking. They offer a useful 118-page training manual to prevent trafficking and assist its victims.

Justice for Immigrants

Justice for Immigrants maintains resources in English, Spanish, and several other languages, to assist migrants in the United States. They also provide some bishops’ statements, educational webinars, and opportunities for Catholics to take action.

Catholic Relief Services

Bilingual resources for parishes and schools to assist with prayer, reflection, and educational activities.

Center for Migration Studies

(CMS) is a think tank and an educational institute devoted to the study of international migration, to the promotion of understanding between immigrants and receiving communities, and to public policies that safeguard the dignity and rights of migrants, refugees and newcomers. CMS was established in 1964 and formally incorporated in 1969 by the Congregation of…

US Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking

This website contains prayer and educational resources, curricula and course modules, and opportunities to take action. It also provides a few examples of places to buy slave-free goods.

Jesuit Refugee Service

JRS maintains a searchable database of resources for prayer, education, and action.

JPIC Lenten Journey: Migration From a Solidarity Heart

This week, our JPIC Lenten focus is on immigration and solidarity.  We invite you to reflect on what Scripture tells us, what our life experiences teach us and what the face of immigration today asks of us.  As we reflect, let us pray for our brothers and sisters on the move as we, too, are…

A Time of Grace (A Refugee Resettlement Story)

“A Time of Grace” is the story of [Sacred Heart and Our Lady’s Collaborative]’s resettlement of a refugee family, the Komi family. This twenty page booklet is now available on the collaborative website at http://sholnewton.org/refugees. Printed copies are also available at the parish offices.

Slavery Footprint

How many slaves work for you? Take the survey and learn more.