RESOLUTION NO. RS2013-840

A resolution supporting the work and vision of International Justice Mission to end human slavery around the world, and recognizes October 1, 2013 as International Justice Mission Day.

WHEREAS, 27 million people are in some form of slavery today such as commercial sexual exploitation, forced labor, child soldiers, and human trafficking; and

WHEREAS, Human trafficking is the second most profitable global crime, generating $32 billion in annual illicit profits; and

WHEREAS, International Justice Mission (IJM), a global human rights agency and leader confronting these issues, works with local officials in 16 communities throughout the developing world to secure immediate victim rescue and aftercare, to prosecute perpetrators, and to ensure that public justice systems – police, courts and laws – effectively protect the poor; and

WHEREAS, Citizens of Nashville and throughout the United States are looking for ways to invest and advocate in efforts that effectively stop violence against the poor, including human trafficking and forced labor slavery in the developing world; and

WHEREAS, IJM offers powerful, effective opportunities for Nashville citizens and communities of faith to invest in and support their successful model, including advocacy, fundraising, volunteering, raising awareness, and artist partnerships; and

WHEREAS, Many of the diverse, resourceful citizens that make Nashville remarkable, including musicians, business owners, pastors, people of faith and conscience, Tennessee Titans football players, students and many more, have already demonstrated their support for ending slavery and trafficking, and for IJM’s work in particular.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as supporting the work and vision of International Justice Mission (IJM) to successfully “rescue thousands, protect millions, and prove that justice for the poor is possible” and IJM’s efforts to build a movement in Nashville, the United States and globally that can end slavery and trafficking in the 21st century through advocacy, giving and more.

Section 2. That the Metropolitan Council hereby recognizes and celebrates October 1, 2013, as “International Justice Mission Day”.

Section 3. That the Metropolitan Council calls upon Tennessee’s Congressional Representatives and Senators to use their voice and vote to support efforts to eradicate slavery at home and abroad.

Section 4. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to Governor Bill Haslam, U.S. Senators Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker, and to Representatives Marsha Blackburn and Jim Cooper.

Section 5. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Josh Stites, Anthony Davis, Megan Barry

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee
Introduced:	September 10, 2013
Adopted:	September 10, 2013
Approved:	September 11, 2013
By: