Multiple agencies take part to remind public crisis “is not just a global issue”

CELINA-Red sand was poured into sidewalk cracks here at the Clay County Health Department last week as a bold reminder that millions of people are slipping through the cracks of society and are hidden in plain sight.

An estimated 50 million people around the world are living in modern slavery, 28 million in forced labor—including trafficking for labor or sex, and 22 million in forced marriages.

“Children, women, and men are being exploited across every country, including right here in our own communities,” officials with the Clay County Anti-Drug Coalition said.  “This is not just a global issue—it’s a local crisis, and it’s happening in Tennessee and across the U.S. in small towns and big cities alike.

“The Red Sand Project helps us remember those who are too often unseen and unheard, and reminds us that awareness is the first step toward action.”

Multiple area agencies participated in the day of of awareness, including officials from the local anti-drug coalition, the Stephens Center, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club, the Tennessee Department of Health, and the Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center.

Those on hand included Kody Thompson of the Clay County Anti-Drug Coalition and her daughter Timber; Tiffany Craighead and Mari’e Gilpatrick of the Stephens Center; SADD Club member Kye Prince; CHANT Coordinator for TN Department of Health Marty Smith; Health Educator for TN Department of Health Sandy Swenson; and Liz Shanks and Brittany Shaw of the Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center

 “If you or someone you know needs help or wants to learn more, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text ‘BEFREE’ to 233733,” organizers of the local project said.  “ Let’s stop ignoring the cracks.  Let’s make sure no one stays hidden.”

For more information, visit redsandproject.org.