How things ought to be
Governor Brewer signing HB 2238 at Streetlight facility
Margaret Mead stated, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” It is a familiar quote; however, this past week I was reminded of its truth. Three years ago I first learned that child sex slavery was a heinous crime that not only existed on the other side of the globe, but also down the street from where I live, go to work, and go to school. It quickly became apparent we needed to create a movement of passionate people, modern day abolitionists, who would stand on the shoulders of hero’s like Wilberforce, Lincoln, Stowe, Bonheoffer, Ghandi, Mandela, and King crying NIMBY – Not In My BackYard!
As we formed the Branded/Streetlight initiatives our focus was on the rescue and restoration of these child victims (Thus our 3-tier strategy of Awareness, Prevention, and Aftercare). Last week we reached a milestone in this fight – Governor Brewer, other Legislators, Law Enforcement, Pastors, Media, and many who have partnered in this fight for justice gathered at our Streetlight safe house to sign House Bill 2238, essentially removing the excuse “I didn’t know” from those who solicit sex from underage victims.
I often state, “We cannot call ourselves a just and stable society if we do not fight for the safety of our children.” HB2238 gives cause for celebration as a reminder that leaders and thousands of passionate, zealous individuals continue to wrestle, struggle, fight, bleed, and pray for JUSTICE! Last week I was privileged to observe a group of modern day abolitionists be the hands and feet of Jesus in this broken world.
“He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God.”
Micah 6:8
Congratulations Pat, and all of the Branded and Streetlight team that have been fighting this battle for years now! Huge victory- Praise God!
Pat that is exciting, thank you for your perseverance in this effort, hopefully others will follow your lead…Praise God!
When I read the quote by Margaret Mead, I was reminded of one of my favorites. Mohandas Gandhi once said, “A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.”
Pat and staff at Streetlight, and all involved with the “branded” program:
My wife and I are so very honored to have become acquainted with you, Pat, and your associates! Like many others, we were amazed to learn of the geographically wide-spread severity of child sex slavery, even in OUR “back yard”. When I became aware of this horrible crime I felt I had no real choice but to join the fight against it! Streetlight and branded are truly becons of hope, if not some degree of promise, to those in tremendous immediate need. Pat, your programs in Phoenix MUST continue to develop, and become models to be followed in many other communities throughout America! Wherever God might lead me, I pray that He will grant me the opportunity to serve with you and your staff in our common goals, and with your direction. You are all such a great blessing to so many! Stay the course, with Prayer, Love, determination, dedication, strength, and … more Love. Congratulations for your work and accomplishments! There are many more to come! Praise Jesus, for His Love, Compasion, and guidance! Your honored Friend, Lynn Shank, (Colorado)
Pat, your leadership through a vision for everyone to join hands … solve rather than just tinker with a problem … and look at it from all angles … always depending on the Lord to guide — all characteristics of a great leader. That you are becoming. I’m with you.
Thinking back over the years I have worked with abused children myself, it seems to be few and far between when a victory takes place that elevates my hope that justice does still exist. My hope and prayer is that not only does this new law bring about justice but also additional awareness as to the many innocent lives that have suffered because of omission. This victory is a stepping stone to expose those who exploit. Hopefully it will assist in the process of bringing our culture to a place of indignation regarding the protection of our children and of the human spirit. It’s heartbreaking to me that “Johns” who have preyed upon adolescents and teenagers at the average age of 13 have gotten off the hook for years on a simple statement, “I didn’t know” she was only 13… And yet when you speak to people all over about this problem they will inevitably say “I didn’t know” this problem existed. The loss of life and free reign of injustice to not knowing must come to an end. I am grateful for the bravery and persistence of the many who have fought and continue to fight to bring to light, and to account, what has been shamefully silent for decades. HB2238 is a blessing in the midst of the battle. May there be many more.