'There is change happening': Cross-Canada events call for end to human trafficking
A small gathering was held on the steps of the Legislative Building in Regina on Friday morning to raise awareness of human trafficking.
At the same time, similar events were happening at seat of government in each province and territory to mark United Nations World Day to End Trafficking in Persons, which started in 2014.
"This is a part of Project Maple Leaf, which was started by a 16-year-old survivor, Kelly Tallon Franklin and she wanted Canadians to be aware that its children that are being sexually exploited and this is a way that we stand with her," Beatrice Wallace, the Regina ambassador for Project Maple Leaf, said.
Wallace is also a survivor of human trafficking, which happened when she was 14 years old in Regina.
"It was about eight years ago when I came out with it because it was such a hidden shame," she said. "Now I want to advocate for our younger generation that we are here for you and I’m going to personally do everything in my power to prevent children from being sexually exploited."
While the issue of human trafficking remains in Saskatchewan and across Canada, Wallace said supports in place for victims has improved.
"People are talking about, before people weren’t talking about it, survivors are coming forward and saying, 'this happened to me and it’s not acceptable'," she said.
"There is change happening."
According to the Government of Canada, 97 per cent of human trafficking victims are women and girls, and 45 per cent are between the ages of 18 and 24.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.