Government, business and community leaders from across the U.S. engage in vital discussion on human trafficking and foster care issues
Media Contact: Nicole Burton
502-564-2611
Nicole.Burton@ky.gov
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Aug. 5, 2019) – Governor Matt Bevin and First Lady Glenna Bevin today convened top government, business and community leaders from across the United States for a groundbreaking dialogue about human trafficking and other key issues impacting children in America's foster care system.
Participants in today's historic conference—"One Mind: Uniting the States for Our Children"—heard from presenters from 10 different states, including government and law enforcement officials, technology innovators, frontline fighters, victim advocates and survivors of human trafficking.
"The First Lady and I are grateful to the many state leaders, business executives, nonprofit organizations, and private individuals from across the country who came together today to stand united in ending the scourge of human trafficking and creating a stronger support system for victims of trafficking," said Gov. Bevin. "We are confident that the solutions discussed at today's summit will transcend state lines and begin a unified, bipartisan effort to eliminate human trafficking across our nation."
At today's conference, leading national experts focused on the human trafficking crisis and a wide array of related topics, including addressing childhood mental health and trauma, supporting youth aging out of foster care, and leveraging the new federal Family First Prevention Services Act.
"I am so grateful to all who attended this year’s One Mind conference, representing multiple advocacy organizations and 11 states. Human trafficking crosses state lines and party lines," said First Lady Glenna Bevin. "The only way we will put an end to the exploitation of our children—the only way we will reform foster care in America—is by standing as a united front. With our continued collective efforts, the spark that began in Louisville can travel home with each of us and add to growing momentum around the country."
Today's presenters included Assistant Secretary Lynn Johnson of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children, Focus on the Family president Jim Daly, trafficking survivor and advocate Kat Wehunt, Veterans for Child Rescue founder Craig "Sawman" Sawyer, and Rising Voices spokesperson William Edwards.
To view the full video of the conference's morning session, click here.
To view the full video of the conference's afternoon session, click here.