To the Chippewa Falls School Board and Administration

The debate about whether or not human trafficking is an issue in our community was answered loud and clear with the arrest of the Altoona Superintendent last year. Regardless of the results of his trial as it goes through the legal system, the reality is that having a man leading an entire school district who could even be considered in this category - let alone be arrested and charged for it - shocked and horrified us.

As part of this community, I want you to know unequivocally that remaining silent about this issue is unacceptable for a number of reasons.

1. Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal enterprise in the world - and it is here in Chippewa Falls.
2. Every victim of sexual abuse (or any type of abuse) in the school district was and is watching to see if the leaders of this community are going to make this a safe place for them to speak out and get help … or if they should just keep their mouth shut.
3. Ignoring this issue does not empower our children to know how to deal with traffickers. It keeps them susceptible and vulnerable to those who prey on those very vulnerabilities.

I believe that the time continue to expand the education of our children, faculty and parents to recognize the signs of human trafficking is before trafficking occurs and not after.  

I believe that if we want our children to value education, we must show them that we are not afraid of knowledge.

I am calling on the Chippewa Falls School Board to continue to work with Fierce Freedom to actively develop an annual plan to provide the students, faculty and parents of the Chippewa Falls School District with the education and tools necessary to recognize the signs of human trafficking and empower us to create a community where this crime is seen clearly and eliminated.