The Current

Advocacy News + Updates

The end of the summer brings last-minute trips to the beach, bonfires at night and crispness in the air. For two IJM advocates, though, the end of summer also marks the beginning of an exciting adventure: a motorcycle trip for justice!

 

Meet Kent and Mem.

They are planning a 2 1/2 week motorcycle tour, mostly through the American and Canadian Rockies, leaving on August 28. They decided to use this ride to help make a difference for victims of human trafficking by supporting IJM. They will be flying a flag as they ride, with an IJM logo and a "Seek Justice: End Human Trafficking" statement on it. They hope others will get involved by donating per mile through their campaign page. They’re also prepared with IJM materials to hand out, since conversations about their flag are sure to come up as they cross the country!

We at IJM’s Government Relations & Advocacy team are inspired by their heart for rescuing victims of violence globally through their support of IJM! They are a clear example of U.S. citizens raising their voice on behalf of the nearly 30 million people held as modern day slaves. The truth is: we can all do something from right where we are!

 

Stay tuned for photos of their ride. But for now, let’s get to know these everyday advocates who are making a difference across the highways and byways of America. I interviewed Kent and Mem, and here's what they had to say.

Hi Kent and Mem – thanks for making your cross-country motorcycle trip a ride for justice! How did you hear about IJM and human trafficking? Was there a moment that motivated you to take action on this issue?

There wasn’t just one defining moment!  A dream about deliverance, some family discussions about IJM and its mission, some very disturbing videos about slavery and human trafficking, a feeling of urgency to do something tangible for victims of abuse… and a growing sense we needed to somehow offer “a cup of cold water” in the name of Jesus and God’s Kingdom.

 

If you could tell those in the communities you’re passing on your motorcycle one thing about human trafficking, what would you like them to know?

Human trafficking is one of those deep, dark, hidden problems that affect all of us in some way.  Families, children, teens, and adults, are being exploited, abused, and terrorized to satisfy someone’s need for money and/or power.  All of us can do something to bring freedom and justice for these victims.

 

What destination on your trip are you most looking forward to seeing?

All 2,100 miles of them!!!  J  Actually, if you combine Glacier National Park, Lake Louise (Alberta), the Pacific Ocean, meeting new family members, and seeing our daughter into one destination, that would be the one!

 

Tell us a little about your bucket list – besides riding over 2,000 miles on a motorcycle, what are other adventures you hope to take?

We have wanted to ride the Pacific Coast Highway, from Seattle to San Diego for many years, and that is now a very definite possibility; hang gliding is definitely part of the bucket for Kent!

And just for fun, what’s your favorite summertime activity? (Besides motorcycle riding, that is.)

Spending time with our kids and grandkids.  Ain’t nothin’ better!

 

Thanks, Kent and Mem! We can’t wait to hear more about your trip. Thanks for making your motorcycle ride a ride for justice.