ACRATH National Committee 2020-2022. Photo: ACRATH
ACRATH (Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans) members from around Australia have gathered in Sydney last week for their annual conference. The theme of the conference this year was Eliminating Human Trafficking – Here and Beyond. Over the two day conference members were informed about human trafficking and slavery issues existing in Australia and discerned how ACRATH might respond to these issues. The conference is a wonderful opportunity for members to experience solidarity with each other as they plan for the year ahead.
Columban Fr Peter O’Neill giving a presentation and participating in a panel to discuss forced labour in Australia
ACRATH National Committee 2020-2022
During the Conference, Sr Louise Cleary csb was elected as the President of ACRATH. Louise is one of the founding members of ACRATH. She has had extensive experience in advocating against human trafficking and slavery in Australia and beyond. At an international assembly of Talitha Kum (the International Network of Consecrated Life Against Human Trafficking) Louise was given an award in recognition of her significant and dynamic work in raising awareness about human trafficking, for identifying the need for legislative and policy change and for inspiring collaboration with community groups. ACRATH members are very grateful to Louise for her willingness to take on this role.
The National Committee for 2020 – 2022:
- President: Louise Cleary csb
- Treasurer: Shane Wood cfc
- Secretary: Carmel Heagerty rsm
- ACT/NSW Regional Coordinator: Lorraine Phelan rsm
- QLD Regional Coordinator: Janine Bliss fmm
- SA Regional Coordinator: Meredith Evans rsm
- Vic Regional Coordinator: Claire Griffin csb
- WA Regional Coordinator: Kathy Fagan
General Committee Members appointed by the National Committee:
Clare Condon sgs and Peter O’Neill ssc