Zumba is one of the hottest crazes in fitness and a far cry from the suffering of the victims of modern-day slavery.

But Zumba is going to help raise money and awareness. Christmas Zumba to Give Hope is a local fundraiser Dec. 8 organized by local antihuman trafficking advocates who make up the Walnut Grove Secondary Value of Life group.

Anna Demian is a Walnut Grove Secondary student and longtime activist with the group.

"We want to see Canada mobilize together in. unity against human trafficking," she said.

What keeps her actively lobbying against human slavery is her belief that it is an "abomination of the value of life" which she wants to see changed.

"People are worth more than to be bought and sold," Demian said.

This will be the group's second Zumba fundraiser for the cause and will be led by instructor Gabriel Smith.

"It was such a special Saturday morning last March with around 130 people of all ages fund raising a total of over $1,880," Demian said.

Miss Canada Tara Teng, another antihuman trafficking activist, gave a welcome address that fired up the participants. She is scheduled to be at the upcoming fundraiser.

"Action is different for each person. It can take many forms: using your talents, your gifts, and your personal connections to spread awareness," Demian said. "Participants were given the opportunity to sign a petition urging our Canadian government to combat this issue through a national action plan."

The upcoming event runs 10-11: 30 a.m. in the Walnut Grove Secondary gym.

All proceeds go to the cause and participation is by donation (minimum $10 recommended).

Gently used clothing and non-perishable food items are also being accepted and will be given to Nighshift Street Ministries.

Demian plans to continue fighting on other's behalf because slavery, sexual exploitation and human trafficking/smuggling are not issues to be read about in the history books alone.

She added that these activities are not just happening in far off lands. Trafficking happens in most countries, including Canada.

There are currently 27 million people around the world trapped in slavery, more than at any other time in history.

"If I can be a part of seeing less people been taken advantage of and completely robbed of their identity, I will do all that I can," she said. "It is a priviledge to use my voice for those that are voiceless. Every day I feel my passion grows as I learn more and hear more stories. People's lives are worth fighting for."

There is a promotional video for the event called Walnut Grove - Zumba to Give Hope.

hcolpitts@langleyadvance.com