March for Freedom Draws Awareness About Human Trafficking

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An estimated 300 people laced up and marched from Columbus City Hall to The Ohio Statehouse Sunday afternoon.

It was all part of the fourth annual "March for Freedom Columbus" to raise awareness about human trafficking.

Organizer Jeanette Bradley said around 60 survivors took part in the walk, and some shared their personal stories of survival on the steps of the statehouse.

"If there's anyone out there going through any type of domestic abuse or any type of domestic violence, or think they're being trafficked, speak up, and keep talking until someone listens" Bradley said.

Bradley added that there was also a moment of silence for people who've lost their lives this year as a result of human trafficking.

For the first time, educational scholarships and freedom grants were also awarded to people to show encouragement.

Bradley said, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, human trafficking is the fastest growing, and second largest criminal industry in the world.

Ohio she added, comes in fourth in the United States, for reported cases of human trafficking.

Bradley said her own 83-year old mother, Helen Stone, wasn't there this year, but usually marches along side her daughter to show love and support.

"You can't let shame stop you, if you do, it wins" Bradley said.