How to Stop Human Trafficking Through Politics

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Stop the Traffic Foundation” Unites Faith, Film, and Action to Combat Child Trafficking in Las Vegas — September 30, 2025.

The Atomic Museum in Las Vegas became a rallying ground for truth and action as community leaders, faith organizations, and advocates gathered for “How to Stop Human Trafficking Through Politics,” hosted by Stop the Traffic Foundation and American Majority Nevada. The event marked the beginning of a powerful community movement to expose, prevent, and fight child trafficking across Nevada and beyond.

Led by Joseph Charafi, President of Stop the Traffic Foundation and producer of the award-winning film Vegas Traffic, the evening combined education, faith, and urgent calls to action. “This isn’t about politics as usual—it’s about people,” Charafi said. “Children cannot afford our silence.”

Rebecca Wood, Executive Director of American Majority Nevada, opened the night by sharing her own deeply personal story that inspired her to take action. “When institutions fail children, it’s up to everyday people to stand up,” she said. “Understanding what’s happening in our own communities is the first step to stopping it.”

The event began in prayer, led by Pastor David El Shielders of Peace Way Christian Center, who reminded attendees that the fight against trafficking is both spiritual and societal.

Charafi then introduced his board of directors, each sharing heartfelt reasons for joining the mission:

• David Gleason (Vice President) emphasized that the issue transcends politics: “Stopping child trafficking isn’t left or right, it’s good versus evil.”

• Michael McDonald (Treasurer) shared his firsthand experience combating trafficking in Las Vegas and called for accountability and harsher penalties for offenders.

• Tony Benton (Secretary) highlighted the role of awareness in driving community action.

• Marlon A. Medina (Public Relations Director) delivered a powerful plea: “This is not a personal movement, it’s a movement bigger than any one of us. Businesses, churches, families, everyone has a role to play.”

Attendees also viewed scenes from Vegas Traffic, the gripping film that inspired the Foundation’s formation. Actor John Molinaro spoke about how the project opened his eyes as both a performer and a father: “If this film can wake up one parent, protect one child, or stop one trafficker, it’s worth it.”

Guest speaker Lena Walthers, from Awareness is Prevention, shared vital insights on the growing epidemic of online grooming and sextortion, offering practical tools for parents and communities to protect children.

Throughout the evening, Charafi and other speakers discussed systemic failures within institutions, the psychological manipulation used by traffickers, and the urgent need for reform in child protection systems. “What’s done in darkness will be brought to light,” Charafi affirmed.

A Call to Faith and Community Action

The Foundation announced plans to collaborate with multiple organizations—including faith-based groups, churches, and local nonprofits—to host educational workshops, deliverance and prayer initiatives, and data-driven programs that help families identify and prevent trafficking in their communities.

Upcoming initiatives include “Awareness 2.0” on October 21st and the “Care Conference” on December 6th at Peace Way Christian Center, both focused on prevention, restoration, and equipping communities to act.

“Too many churches stay silent because the truth is uncomfortable,” Charafi said. “But Scripture commands us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. We must be the front line of protection.”

The night closed with a call to unity and perseverance:

“Evil is relentless—but so are we. Together, we can stop the traffic. Together, we can bring children home.”

About Stop the Traffic Foundation

Stop the Traffic Foundation is a Las Vegas–based nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness, shaping policy, and restoring lives affected by child trafficking. Through film, education, faith partnerships, and community engagement, the Foundation seeks to expose darkness, empower survivors, and build a future where every child is safe and free.

For more information, visit: www.stopthetrafficfoundation.org

Contact: stopthetraffic.info@gmail.com