Inspiring Moments at the Pilgrimage of Prayer and Reflection Against Human Trafficking

As in previous years, the Comité d’action contre la traite humaine interne et internationale (CATHII)(Committee Against National and International Human Trafficking) contributed to the online pilgrimage of prayer and reflection against human trafficking. Sr. IsaBelle Couillard, President of CATHII, coordinated the North American component, which included the United States and Canada, represented by CATHII.

This portion was at the end of the pilgrimage that began at 3:30 a.m. (our time) by the representatives of the Talitha Kum networks from Asia – Oceania, Middle East, Africa, Europe and Latin America.

In the Canadian section, Sr. Couillard highlighted the visit of the Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Slavery to the country, which enabled him to take the pulse of the situation and meet with organizations. The presentation of a video highlighted his findings and the issues surrounding trafficking and its many facets in this country, particularly that of migrant workers. This video and the prayer that closed the North American segment were produced by Renaude Grégoire, CATHII development officer.

Organized as part of the World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking, this pilgrimage provides an overview of the many commitments being made around the world to counter the phenomenon of human trafficking and to help its victims. Moments of prayer and reflection in the colors of the participants are grafted onto the year’s theme: “Journey in Dignity: Listen, Dream, Act”.

The complete pilgrimage can be accessed here. Further information can be found on the World Day’s website.

Below, you will find the North America-only video clip from this pilgrimage. Please note that there is a slight discrepancy between the visual and the audio at certain points in the presentations.

Now in its 10th year, this World Day pays tribute to Saint Josephine Bakhita, a victim of human trafficking from childhood. She joined a Religious Congregation after emigrating to Italy. The virtual pilgrimage is coordinated by Talitha Kum (a network of religious organizations campaigning against human trafficking). Promotion is handled by Unions internationales des Supérieures (UISG) and des Supérieurs généraux (USG).