IHIJC IN THE COMMUNITY

Linda J. Wiles, Vice President of In His Image Justice Coalition testified on March 16, 2023 at the New Jersey State House on Assembly Bill # 4004 to the Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee of the New Jersey Assembly. This bill establishes a safe haven program in fire stations throughout the state for the purpose of providing additional services for victims of sex trafficking and domestic violence. The committee voted unanimously to support the bill.

Assemblywoman Carol Murphy is joined by fellow legislators and advocates bringing the Red Sand Project to the New Jersey State House. The project is a participatory artwork created by Molly Gochman that asks participants to pour red sand in the sidewalk cracks to represent filling in the gaps that can lead to human trafficking and exploitation. Thank you Judi Worgess, Co-founder and President of In His Image Justice Coalition and Ashley Boyer, Human Trafficking Survivor for your powerful advocacy. This event is held ahead of an Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee meeting, during which the committee will consider a slate of bills addressing human trafficking and services for survivors. The committee will convene at 1:00 PM and audio will be livestreamed at https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/live-proceedings On the agenda is a bill (A-476) sponsored by Assemblywoman Murphy that calls for the Commission on Human Trafficking, which is tasked with raising public awareness of human trafficking, to promote initiatives including the Red Sand Project as part of their efforts.

On October 15, 2022, IHIJC hosted its 8th annual A21 Walk for Freedom to bring local awareness to human trafficking, and to support the global anti-trafficking work of the A21 Campaign. Starting location was graciously provided by St Paul United Methodist Church in Willingboro, and our turn-around/stopping point by Parkway Baptist Church. Well over 100 people walked a 2.25 mile course, while educational materials were handed out. A survivor shared her testimony during our education hour, and Miss NJ shared her passion to see human trafficking end. The event ended with a call for "No More Demand" and the blowing of the Shofar, which is a call into battle.

On Jan 5, 2021, IHIJC team members Judi Worgess and Cristina Bivins interview Senator Troy Singleton. The interview took place at RVN studios on the New Perspectives program by Barry Lefkowitz. The subject of human trafficking was discussed.

IHIJC has been thrilled to partner with three billboard companies, Aducat, Keystone, and Keystone Outdoor!  These companies are providing free billboard advertising when they have available space.  Pictured is our first billboard to be used, and right now it is being displayed on electronic billboards in Mt. Laurel, Philadelphia and other locations!  Thank you to Aducat, Keystone and Keystone Outdoor in joining us in this fight!