Forum discusses social issues in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — On Friday Alyssa McKenzie, the founder of Stand Against Trafficking USA, hosted a forum at Cape Fear Community College to discuss several social issues.

“A lot of issues lead to human trafficking, and if we can start addressing those social issues on the forefront, then human trafficking won’t exist,” McKenzie said.

“The opioid issue, the human trafficking issue, the homeless issue. Obviously what we have been doing isn’t working, and we want to start a dialogue on what can work and how we can work together to be more effective.”

Members of the community who came to the event want to help. They say understanding the issues is the first step to helping with the what is going on.

Brett Speight who attended the event said, “I need to be educated about what it all consist of. So I am here to learn, but at the same time show support.”

Organizers say the best way to overcome social problems is by talking about them, which is not always easy.

“It’s a hard issue. I think people have been really affected by this, and they don’t even know,” said McKenzie.

Even beyond discussion it is important to reach out to those who need help.

“If we can start helping that person before their life starts spinning out of control, then we can actually help with the safety of out community,” said McKenzie.

To learn more you can visit their website by clicking here.