“Slavery may seem like a bygone relic of history, but modern slavery remains with us today, around the globe and right next door. According to the International Labour Organization, roughly 40 million people are victims of labour and sexual exploitation.

“Albertans, as champions of freedom and defenders of the vulnerable, have a moral obligation to be leaders in ending modern slavery and fighting for freedom.

“As a volunteer with the International Justice Mission, I personally witnessed the devastating effects of modern slavery on vulnerable people, especially women and children. As Canada’s immigration minister, I was proud to implement Canada’s first National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking.

“My colleagues and I continue that fight. We made a commitment to launch a nine-point Alberta Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking. That commitment emphasizes partnerships with law enforcement, employers, communities and the federal government.

“Our government will continue to support victims, lobby for stricter human trafficking penalties and raise public awareness of this pressing issue. May we all do our part to end the violence and stand with the survivors.”