It doesn't matter how often I see the statistics on online child exploitation,I do a double take every time. The stats are staggering. As we prepared to launch the Mother's Online Movement (MOM) this week, I read a lot of statistics, twice, sometimes three times or more, because I continue to be outraged, shocked, sickened and in disbelief at how staggering the numbers are. Take for example a recent study by the Internet Sex Crimes Against Children task force that reveals more than 44,970 computers nationwide are actively engaged in trading child pornography. This was covered extensively, including in the Toronto Star (http://www.thestar.com/article/302721) earlier this year.
Double take - YES, more than 44,970 computers nationwide are engaged in trading child pornography. Behind each one of these images of child pornography is a child, a child being abused - a child that has no voice.
So here's a new stat. In 8 hours yesterday there were over 200 views of the Mothers Online Movement video on YouTube - 200 individuals who are now more informed on the issue of online child exploitation and ready to be a voice for the children and youth who are victims of the 44,970 who are actively engaged in trading child pornography.
As MOMs, we can make a difference, we are resourceful, we are powerful. Visit www.mothersonlinemovement.ca and find out how you can take action.
Paula KnightKINSA Advisory Board