WARREN — With more than 50 million people worldwide subjected to human trafficking, local faith leaders from St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church are stepping up to confront what they describe as “an overwhelming darkness in society.”

From noon to 2 p.m. Jan. 18, the church will host a free event at the St. Demetrios Community Center, 3223 Atlantic St. NE, to educate the public about human trafficking and exploitation.

“The Christian faith exposes the nature of darkness; namely that it exists only due to the absence of light,” the Rev. Costa Valantasis said. “Human trafficking and exploitation is a darkness that defiles and desecrates the sacred image which each person bears. Speaking about this ongoing horror and educating people as to its reality is one small way each of us can bring light into a darkness that seems overwhelmingly ubiquitous. I stay hopeful, however, because in the end, God will have the last word.”

The event will feature guest speaker Rev. Peter Spiro, who has devoted himself to raising awareness about human trafficking and offering resources to those affected. Attendees will learn about prevention strategies, protection measures and ways to provide support to vulnerable individuals in their communities.

Refreshments will be provided.

Today, FreeThree, an organization working to save victims of human trafficking, is hosting an awareness event at 10 a.m. at New Life Church, 2250 E. Western Reserve Road, Poland. Local survivors will speak about their experiences.