Most people assume that slavery ended in the U.S. with the Civil War, but the fact is that this practice continues even today. Human trafficking–the trade or commerce of people– is alive and well, and Houston is one of our country’s largest hubs for this illegal industry.
Be it slavery, prostitution, forced labor, involuntary servitude or the sale of babies and children for adoption, human trafficking is a growing crime with a high profit margin and a low risk of prosecution. With our diverse population, proximity to the border and ports, and access to many of our nations major highways, Houston is ideal for entry and exportation of human traffic, both domestic and international. On this week’s Houston 8, we analyze the size of the problem, discuss the toll that it is taking on our community, and suggest ways to curb this illegal and immoral practice in the future. Guests: Special Agent Maritza Conde-Vazquez, Federal Bureau of Investigation; Charlotte Morris-Coalition Against Human Trafficking of Houston; Maria Trujillo-Houston Rescue and Restore Coalition; original broadcast date November 20, 2009.
http://www.houstonpbs.org

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