The rise of the online sexual exploitation of children has become a grave crisis, with the United States hosting the second-highest number of URLs containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) worldwide. (Internet Watch Foundation.) This horrifying reality demands immediate action. Global Hope 365, an organization dedicated to ending human trafficking and protecting children, is leading the charge to address this issue by advocating for critical legislation.
Global Hope 365 has long been at the forefront of efforts to protect children and vulnerable populations. Through education, advocacy, and grassroots campaigns, the organization raises awareness about human trafficking and the need for stronger laws to protect communities.
This November, Global Hope 365 wants to raise awareness to support two crucial bills: the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSA) and the SHIELD Act.
Understanding KOSA and the SHIELD Act
1. The Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSA):KOSA (S. 1409) is a groundbreaking bill aimed at addressing the dangers children face online. It mandates social media platforms and other online service providers to adopt safety-by-design standards. These include:
Implementing tools to reduce exposure to harmful content.
Enhancing transparency by providing reports on content moderation and enforcement practices.
Giving parents and guardians greater control over their children’s online interactions.
This act ensures that companies prioritize the well-being of children by creating safer digital environments, ultimately reducing the risks of exploitation, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate material. KOSA passed the Senate in July 2024, and the House Energy and Commerce Committee has since taken steps to advance the bill.
2. The SHIELD Act:The SHIELD Act (S. 412) addresses a different but equally critical issue: the unauthorized sharing of explicit images. By creating federal liability for the distribution of private, intimate content without consent, the SHIELD Act:
Protects victims from the devastating effects of non-consensual pornography.
Closes loopholes in existing laws that fail to address the growing problem of child exploitative materials online.
Ensures accountability for perpetrators while maintaining exceptions for consensual and public interest content.
The SHIELD Act has already passed the Senate and is now awaiting markup in the House Judiciary Committee.
Global Hope 365’s Mission and Advocacy
Global Hope 365 has a clear mission: to end human trafficking and protect children from exploitation, both online and offline. They advocate for stricter laws, provide resources for communities, and work tirelessly to raise awareness about the pervasive threats children face. Their efforts extend to addressing child marriage, labor exploitation, and the online risks that facilitate trafficking and abuse.
As an organization, Global Hope 365 emphasizes that protecting children requires systemic change. Through initiatives like #ProtectKidsOnline, they are mobilizing grassroots efforts to support legislative actions like KOSA and the SHIELD Act.
Why Action is Urgent
With only about 20 days left in the congressional session, the opportunity to pass KOSA and the SHIELD Act is slipping away. Both pieces of legislation are critical to protecting children from harm, holding bad actors accountable, and addressing the systemic issues that allow exploitation to thrive.
How You Can Help
Global Hope 365 is calling on all concerned citizens to take action. Here’s how:
Contact Your Representatives: Reach out to your congressional representatives and urge them to support the Senate versions of KOSA (S. 1409) and the SHIELD Act (S. 412).
Spread the Word: Share information about these bills and the #ProtectKidsOnline campaign on social media to raise awareness.
Get Involved: Follow Global Hope 365’s updates and join their advocacy efforts to make a lasting difference.
A Safer Future for Children
At Global Hope 365, the commitment to ending child exploitation and human trafficking is unwavering. Passing KOSA and the SHIELD Act is a critical step toward creating safer online spaces, empowering victims, and holding perpetrators accountable. Together, we can #ProtectKidsOnline and ensure a brighter, safer future for all children.
Take action today and be part of this vital movement. Every voice counts.
How You Can Make a Difference
Global Hope 365 relies on donations to continue their advocacy, educational efforts, and collaboration with organizations working to safeguard minors from exploitation.
By becoming a monthly donor, you can contribute to these crucial efforts. Even a $15 monthly donation can help fund resources for advocacy, prevention programs, and protective measures for at-risk youth. To join the fight against child exploitation, please consider donating:
Visit Global Hope 365Or send a check to:
Global Hope 365335 Centennial Way, Suite 200Tustin, CA 92780
Together, we can help create a safer world for children, free from the horrors of sextortion, trafficking, and exploitation. Join Global Hope 365 in protecting vulnerable young lives and building a future where every child can grow up safe.
Get involved: https://www.globalhope365.org/getinvolved
Global Hope 365 - Connect with us online
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlobalHope365
Twitter: https://x.com/globalhope365
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/globalhope365
Comments