The City of Prince George became the first local government to sign a statement of support for the Human Trafficking Network of British Columbia today (Friday).
The signing, which was also to mark Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, took place at City Hall prior to a roundtable discussion with local organizations.
Mayor Simon Yu said the City looks to be a leader in combating Human trafficking and supporting survivors.
“We have brought this to North Central Local Government Association last week in Prince Rupert, and we announced this in the form of a resolution to Union of BC Municipalities and Federation of Canadian Municipalities.”
“We may not have as significant of an issue compared to large centres, but we’re saying if it can happen to us, take a look at your own backyard.”
The organizations involved in the signing include:
- Association Advocating for Women and Community (AWAC)
- Elizabeth Fry Society
- Prince George Sexual Assault Centre (Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline)
- Violence Against Women in Relationships (VAWIR)
- Carrier Sekani Family Services Sexual Violence Survivor Support Program
Elizabeth Fry Society Executive Director, Shannon Smith noted that with the challenges faced in the north, it’s great to be a leader in the area, and to recognize that the more municipalities connected through proclamations, the better off the province will be.
The City joins more than 20 corporate and community partners across the province in the network.
More information can be found on the City’s website here.
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