Poets combat to raise awareness
─ first-ever TIP poetry contest held
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Several verse-makers took to the microphone on Monday evening to express their thoughts and feelings on the issue of Trafficking In Persons, through spoken word. The competitors performed their pieces on sexual and labour exploitation and the steps members of the public can take to combat human trafficking, either individually or as a collective.
The initiative, hosted by the Ministry of Public Security via its Trafficking in Persons Taskforce, garnered a positive response from all who attended the event. The competition, which was held at the ministry’s parking lot in Brickdam, was among a series of activities planned in commemoration of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed on July 30. It was intended to raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights.
Acting Coordinator, Trafficking in Persons Taskforce, Oliver Profitt told the participants and the audience, that among the numerous programmes created to highlight the issue of human trafficking, this is the most creative and innovative and has attracted the attention of many young people.
“Trafficking in persons does not have a face; anyone can be a victim of this crime … we were glad to see the number of young persons’ submitting poems because we know that youths are definitely at risk,” Proffitt said.
The coordinator added that he is hopeful the participants of the competition will continue to support the department in its mission ‘to take the fight forward’ to end the scourge and bring relief to those who may fall victim to the crime.
The participants in the 14-17 category received $30,000 and gift voucher, $20,000 and $15,000 for first, second and third place respectively; while the 18 and older category received $50,000, $30,000 and $20,000 respectively.
From January 5 to July 03, 2018, seventy-seven TIP victims were rescued and were ─ provided with the necessary psychosocial support. Sixty of these victims were placed in protective care, while some were assisted with job placements, educational and training opportunities, and judicial support when necessary.
By: Neola Damon
Images: Kennyann Bacchus