Grandmother's Walk Raises Awareness on Local Sexual Exploitation

Steinbach had their first-ever Grandmother’s Walk on Friday; an event intended to raise awareness on sexual exploitation.

The walk was hosted by the South East Coalition Against Trafficking and Chairperson Stephanie Klassen says it was one of many happening throughout Manitoba.

“These walks were started in 2007 by a bunch of grandmothers who decided they wanted to raise more awareness around the issues of local human trafficking and sexual exploitation,” explains Klassen, “So we are following in their very wise footsteps.”

Klassen notes approximately 35 people of all ages participated in the short walk that led from Steinbach City Hall to the Pat Porter Active Living Centre where a hot dog lunch was waiting. She mentions that their route was planned with some intentionality: “We wanted to walk past some of the schools to let kids know that this is an issue that we are working on. It's part of our job to make sure we are all looking out for kids.”

Unfortunately, many people fail to realize how big of an issue sexual exploitation is in their immediate communities, indicates Klassen. She suggests walks like these are just one small way of bringing the issue into the public eye and letting those who have been hurt know they can get support.