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Chairperson Karina Wood introduced the Guest speakers, Tony and Robyn Stokes, who spoke on the topic ‘Rotarian action group against world slavery." Tony is a Past President of his club and Victorian Coordinator of the Action group. He has spoken to various groups and will address two Warrnambool Rotary clubs whilst he is here.
Tony thanked the club for inviting he and Robyn, and Ian McKay for his asssistance. Tony said that slavery was involved where control over people was exercised and where people are treated as commodities. This takes various forms; some people who get into debt become bonded labourers, and can never repay the debt.
Population explosion, poverty and corruption (particularly by governments) are factors which perpetuate slavery. Despite being illegal everywhere, slavery still persists, and will do so unless elimination is made a priority. Businessman Andrew Forrest has strongly supported the campaign.
He instanced also Kevin Bales who is Professor of Contemporary slavery in the U.K. The Action group was formed in 2009 and adopted by Rotary International in 2013, and is now in 65 countries. The aim is to educate people about slavery and plan action.
Robyn mentioned two projects which are being supported; one concerns cyber-sex in the Philippines, the second concerns Children's rights in Myanmar. Rotary works with non-Government organisations to create awareness of the problem. In the Philippines they work with Police and assist survivors. In Myanmar, where there has been civil war, they combat child labour and abuse. One of the solutions is, of course, education for those involved. Robyn outlined ways of being involved, such as obtaining Rotary District Grants or Government grants of five to one, that is $2000 raised becomes $12000.
After some questions were answered, Karina thanked both speakers and presented them with the usual certificates relating to provision of malarial nets.
(To view the powerpoint presentation please click here)
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