On May 12, 2026, York Region CAS proudly participated in the fourth annual York Region Anti-Human Trafficking Conference at Seneca Polytechnic (King Campus), held under the theme Eyes Open: Knowledge to Action.
The event brought together approximately 300 attendees, including parents, families, youth, caregivers, community members, and service providers, for an opportunity to learn, connect, and act. Through presentations, workshops, and interactive booths, participants gained valuable knowledge, tools, and resources to help protect and empower our community.
The evening began with a grounded opening ceremony and smudge led by Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services. Attendees also heard powerful perspectives from York Regional Police and from a mother of a survivor who had experienced human trafficking, while youth engaged in activities focused on personal safety, self-esteem, and resilience.
York Region CAS was proud to assist in planning for the conference and even had our own booth to connect with attendees about our work, including our ongoing foster care recruitment efforts. We were also proud to stand alongside community leaders, including Inspector David Sedgewick (York Regional Police), MP Anna Roberts (King–Vaughan), Deputy Mayor Linda Jackson (City of Vaughan), and Conference Planning Lead Jasmine Scott DeFina (Victim Services of York Region – recently presented with Civic Hero Award by Vaughan Council).
A special thank you to everyone who contributed to this impactful event. Together, we are stronger in the fight against human trafficking and in our shared commitment to protecting and empowering our community.
