March Newsletter, Labeling for Lent and Trafficking at Sea.   Hidden in Plain Sight: A USCCB/MRS Anti-trafficking Reflection Series June Reflection Issue 1 Celebrating Immigrant Heritage Month Embracing Diversity and Contributions June marks Immigrant Heritage Month in the United States, a time dedicated to celebrating the rich culmination of immigrant experiences and their invaluable contributions to the nation. Established in 2014 by the nonprofit organization “Welcome.us” and a coalition of partners, this month-long observance aims to honor the diverse cultural, social, and economic impacts of immigrants and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the immigrant experience. Historical Context and Significance Immigrant Heritage Month serves as a reminder that the United States is a nation that has been served will by migrant communities and have been integral in shaping the country's identity. This month recognizes their struggles, triumphs, and the fundamental role they play in maintaining America's diversity and dynamism. President Biden's 2022 proclamation on immigrant heritage month emphasized the important role immigrants play in various sectors, from healthcare and technology to arts and public service. The administration's commitment to making the immigration system more accessible and humane underscores the importance of immigrants to the nation's future​. Immigrants are key drivers of economic growth, establishing businesses, creating jobs, and stimulating innovation, as evidenced by companies like Google, Intel, and Tesla, co-founded by immigrants or their children. They enrich American culture through diverse traditions, cuisines, music, art, and literature, contributing to the unique American identity with influences from Italian pizza to Chinese cuisine and from jazz to hip-hop. Immigrant scientists and researchers, such as Albert Einstein, have made groundbreaking contributions in fields like physics, medicine, technology, and engineering. Additionally, immigrants have been active participants in social and political movements, advocating for civil rights and social reforms, thereby shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. Many have also served in the U.S. military, defending the nation and embodying values of democracy and freedom. Migrant communities encompass a variety of demographics that include women, unaccompanied children, refugees, and can include Indigenous persons. While each population faces risks based on geography and demographic status, many are vulnerable to exploitation, given their marginalized situation. Traffickers thrive where vulnerability is high, especially in the circumstances and challenges that occur in the lives of migrants. Individuals migrating from their country of origin to the United States through irregular means are at risk of labor and sexual trafficking. Such migrants are often less likely to turn to local law enforcement, government, and other organizations because of a distrust of these types of entities. Their lack of status enhances their vulnerability to traffickers, who prey on these individuals due to their precarious situations. Risk factors that often affect migrant populations include financial insecurity, language barriers, a generalized lack of trust in law enforcement, and irregular status. To learn more about human trafficking, the catholic church and US policy click here Activities and Events Throughout June, numerous events celebrate immigrant heritage. Organizations like "I Am An Immigrant" host cultural events, roundtables, and public art installations to highlight immigrant stories and contributions. Notable events include the #ToImmigrantsWithLove campaign in Times Square and the Celebrate Immigrants Tour, which showcases public art across various cities​. Immigrant Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the countless contributions of immigrants to the United States. By celebrating their stories and achievements, we recognize that America's strength lies in its diversity and the shared values that unite us all. This month, take an opportunity to hear the stories of migrants, the travails that they faced coming to the United States, and their new life here. Two great resources to this end include the Catholic Legal Immigration Network's Stories of Immigration and the Forced Migration Oral History Archive that was developed by Princeton University and the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services. Upcoming Events World Refugee Day World Refugee Day is an international day of awareness for all refugees hosted by the United Nations; the celebration takes place on June 20th every year. The USCCB joint letter on Strangers No Longer: Together on the Journey of Hope, is a Catholic framework for responding to the ongoing migration in their respective countries, to learn more about our work at Justice for Immigrants, click here. Summer Webinar Series June 18th, 20th, 25th and 27th at 2PM EST. Register Here! June Webinar Series: Part 1 Understanding Human Trafficking in Native American and Indigenous Communities This webinar examines global human trafficking within Native American and Indigenous communities. It covers the church's response, and tactics used by traffickers, and guides professionals to identify or suspect trafficking. Additionally, it explores the link between human trafficking and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Men, and Children, highlighting legal barriers, involvement in child welfare and foster care systems, and stigmas that disproportionately affect Native and Indigenous individuals June Webinar Series: Part 2 The Influenc of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and Risky Behaviors in Native Communities. Examining the impact of SUDs and Risky Behavior within Native American and Indigenous communities, this webinar explores the generational and individual effects of substance use disorders. It also addresses the impact of risky sexual and substance use behaviors on the potential victimization of young adults in trafficking situations. Register Here! June Webinar Series: Part 3 Human Trafficking in Native Communities, Catholic Ministry and Dynamics Join us for a one-hour online webinar to discuss the cultural and historical overview of native communities, along with Catholic Ministry and Cultural Respect Among Native American Peoples - A Dynamic Webinar for Clergy, Religious Sisters, and Lay Faithful. Register Here! June Webinar Series: Part 4 Online Child Exploitation, Recruitment, and Abuse Within Native Communities This webinar delves into the impact of online exploitation. It explores how the rise of social media platforms and internet access has altered the methods perpetrators use to recruit and harbor children online. The session touches on issues such as Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM), Sextortion, and other online exploitation tactics. Register Here! New Resource! We are thrilled to announce that we have a new St. Bakhita prayer card! Amy Heyse painted the beautiful piece of art that graces the front. Although we cannot print to order, we can share with you a PDF version of the prayer card. We also have the prayer card available in Spanish. For more information, please email [email protected] If you want to learn more about the USCCB/MRS' Anti-Trafficking Program, reach out to: Felicitas Brugo Onetti Anti-Trafficking Education and Outreach Coordinator Email: [email protected] Phone: (202) 541-3064   Our Company | Contact Us   USCCB | 3211 Fourth Street NE | Washington, DC 20017 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice