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Smith Praised for Leadership in Humanitarian Causes |
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(Washington, DC) — Citing his leadership role in numerous humanitarian efforts, The International Institute of New Jersey presented Rep. Chris Smith with the 2004 Leadership Award at its annual meeting in “Congressman Smith has earned our highest respect and admiration for his outstanding work and national leadership in combating the scourge of human trafficking and bringing hope and assistance to torture survivors in the United States and throughout the world,” said Nicholas Mantalto, the President and CEO of the International Institute of NJ. “I can think of no one other than Chris Smith who better fits Webster’s definition of humanitarian -- one who is devoted to the promotion of human welfare and the advancement of social reforms," Mantalto said. Established by the YWCA in 1918, The International Institute of New Jersey has been a leading agency providing an array of humanitarian services for new immigrants and refugees to “It is an honor to work along with, and for, the dedicated staff and volunteers of the International Institute of Smith is the author of several laws that promote human rights both here and abroad. His Trafficking Victims Protection Act (PL-106-386) is groundbreaking legislation that moved the The anti-human trafficking legislation, which was expanded and enhanced by Smith’s subsequent law, PL 108-193, also provides significant counseling, shelter, and humanitarian assistance to the victims of trafficking. Since taking office, the Bush Administration has provided more than $295 million to support anti-human trafficking programs domestically and in more than 120 countries. To avoid the penalties established by Smith’s legislation, 24 nations have thus far enacted new laws to combat the trade in human lives. Thirty-two are in the process of drafting or passing such laws. Last year nearly 8,000 traffickers were prosecuted worldwide; 2,800 have been convicted. Smith is also the author of three separate laws that provide specific aid to torture victims and a comprehensive strategy for global efforts to eliminate torture. There are an estimated 500,000 survivors of torture in the | ||
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For Immediate Release: December 2, 2004 Contact: Andy Napoli (202) 225-3765 |
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