WHEREAS, in 2012, Polaris Project celebrates 10 years of working to create a world without human trafficking and without modern-day slavery; and WHEREAS, named after the North Star that guided slaves toward freedom along the Underground Railroad, Polaris Project brings together everyday people to create a nationwide network focused on combating human trafficking and helping the victims of modern-day slavery; and WHEREAS, Polaris Project has developed expert knowledge of trafficking networks around the world that is relied upon by law-enforcement officers, elected officials, business leaders, and service providers; and WHEREAS, Polaris Project advocates for stronger federal and state laws against human trafficking, conducts training, and provides vital services to clients; and WHEREAS, Polaris Project operates the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline; since its inception, the hotline has answered 48,000 calls, connected 5,600 victims to services, and reported more than 2,000 cases to law enforcement; and WHEREAS, Polaris Project has directly provided services to 500 human trafficking survivors through its client services program and trained more than 42,000 people; and WHEREAS, Polaris Project has provided invaluable services and support to the victims of human trafficking while working to end the practice; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Polaris Project on the occasion of its 10th anniversary; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Polaris Project as an expression of the General Assembly's congratulations and respect for the organization's efforts to end human trafficking and modern-day slavery. |