Polaris Project is a leading organization in the global fight against human trafficking and modern-day slavery. Named after the North Star "Polaris" that guided slaves to freedom along the Underground Railroad, Polaris Project is transforming the way that individuals and communities respond to human trafficking, in the U.S. and globally. By successfully pushing for stronger federal and state laws, operating the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline (1-888-373-7888), conducting trainings, and providing vital services to victims of trafficking, Polaris Project creates long-term solutions that move our society closer to a world without slavery.

Junior Leagues of California State Public Affairs Committee is proud to work with the Polaris Project, including on SB 738 which would create a statewide framework for treating commercially sexually exploited youth as victims not criminals. Below are some important resources from the Polaris Project.

Human Trafficking Overview:
http://www.polarisproject.org/human-trafficking/overview

2013 California State Report:
http://www.polarisproject.org/storage/documents/California_State_Report_2013_08_01_16_51_38_377.pdf

Local Organizations:
http://www.polarisproject.org/state-map/california

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. President Barack Obama issued a Presidential Proclamation calling for communities and organizations to recognize the vital role everyone can play in ending all forms of slavery. Governor of California Jerry Brown's State Proclamation recognizes the need for both enforcement against perpetrators and aid for victims.

Here in California we have been making progress but much room for improvement remains. The Junior Leagues of California State Public Affairs Committee is committed to ending human trafficking in all its forms. We support policies and programs that stop human trafficking, advocate for victims, and educate the community at large.

The Junior Leagues of California has worked with state leaders and advocates on legislation which enables trafficking victims to rebuild their lives. This year we are proud to team with CAST LA and author Senator Leland Yee sponsoring SB 738 which creates a framework for treating commercially sexually exploited youth as victims not criminals.

You can help us join the fight for freedom. Here are some ways to do that:

• If you suspect someone is at risk, report it: The National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline 1-888-373-7888 or The U.S. Department of Justice Hotline 1-888-428-7581
• Sign on as an official supporter of SB 738 (email SPAC Legislative Liaison at carolinebruister@gmail.com)
• Find California resources including local organizations listed at: http://californiaspac.org/2014/01/06/california-human-trafficking-resources/
• Help us spread the word on Twitter (https://twitter.com/calspac), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CASPAC) with the hashtags: #CAPubAffairs #EndSlavery #HumanTrafficking #SB738