'A team' walks against human trafficking

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GEORGE NEWS - In honour of those who cannot speak for themselves, residents of George participated in the A21 Walk for Freedom against human trafficking on Saturday 20 October.

During the first walk of its kind in George, a total of 560 people and one dog started walking from Hope Church in Knysna road and took to the streets in single file and silence. After the declaration of freedom was read, participants walked towards CTM through Protea Park and back to Hope Church. "It was an eye-catching, traffic-stopping walk headed by former Springbok rugby player, Bevin Fortuin," said Ancel Marais, a member of the George A team.

"He was happy to give his support to this worthy cause. Many were tearful and used the time to walk silently to pray for those affected by human trafficking."

A21 is a global non-profit organisation determined to eradicate human trafficking through awareness, intervention and aftercare. "During the last couple of months the newly formed George A Team prepared for the Walk for Freedom by radio interviews, school presentations and speaking openly about this atrocity that has become the fastest growing crime in the 21st century," said Marais.

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"We thank everyone for the support that in many ways made the Walk for Freedom a huge success. Thank you to our various sponsors, Commerce Edge, The Biltong Warehouse and Nuts, Total Garage in Courtenay Street, Dotsure, Glenwood My School, ER paramedics, Wellness Centre and the New Life Church, the police and George traffic department as well as Hope Church for their support and facilities."

If anyone has been affected by human trafficking and needs support, please contact the resource line on 0800 222 777.

For more information regarding presentations or getting involved in next year's walk on 19 October 2019, please e-mail the George A Team on georgeateam@gmail.com.

This is the first A21 Walk for Freedom held in George. The aim of the walk is to emphasise the reality of human trafficking in this day and age.