To the Editor:

Child sex trafficking, a form of modern day slavery, is a growing problem, not only in Minnesota but in every state in the United States. Victims are being forced into commercial sex.

On a national level, did you know that the average age of entry into prostitution is 12 to 14? According to the FBI, Minnesota is in the top 13 states for children being recruited into the sex trade. Minnesota law enforcement believes that sex trafficking is happening in every county of our state.

The No. 1 reason why this industry is so successful is because there’s a lack of knowledge and awareness of the subject. There are many websites on the Internet, with a lot of information concerning sex trafficking, with more statistics than I listed.

The Polaris Project, Breaking Free and Mission 21 are just a few organizations with websites committed to helping victims of this horrific crime.

In 2011, Minnesota enacted the “Safe Harbor Law,” meant to protect young adults, 18 years and younger. They are treated as victims and survivors, not criminals.

Get involved, get educated and talk about sex trafficking with your friends and family. Protect our young adults. That young person could be your son or daughter. If you or someone you know is a victim and needs help, call (888) 373-7888.

Lola Schultz,

legislative chairwoman

Catholic Daughters

of the Americas

Blue Earth