Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted the Sixth Annual Bosnian Women’s Day on Capitol Hill. This year, Bosnian Women’s Day focused on addressing the global issue of human trafficking. The event was held in conjunction with the Advisory Council for Bosnia and Herzegovina (ACBH), a non-profit organization in Washington D.C. that advocates on behalf of Bosnian Americans and for a united, multi-ethnic, and democratic Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH).
“I am so glad we have so many people in attendance that are interested and engaged in this issue,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “I want to thank the Council for Bosnia and Herzegovina for their leadership and continuing efforts on ending trafficking. We started this Bosnian Women’s Day event to bring women to the table in the peacemaking efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
This year’s presenters are extensively involved in studying and advocating against human trafficking around the world. Professor Tanya L. Domi was responsible for breaking the story of the United Nations human rights investigation that uncovered extensive human trafficking in post war BiH. The story was later made into the major motion picture The Whistleblower. Professor Domi discussed the complex system of human trafficking and how prevalent it was in postwar Bosnia and Herzegovina. Activist Martina E. Vandenberg, Esq. of the Human Trafficking Pro Bono Legal Center chronicled her experience during the past 20 years representing victims of trafficking and rape in both immigration, criminal, and civil cases. Her work has led to the passage of major international legislation against human trafficking.
“Human trafficking must be stopped, it is a war we must win,” Congresswoman Johnson said as she addressed the crowd.
