CNN Hero: 'We have to fight against this crime and protect the children from this.'

[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/10/12/art.koirala.cnn.jpg caption="Anuradha Koirala is fighting to prevent the trafficking and sexual exploitation of Nepal’s women and girls."]

Programming Note: CNN Heroes received more than ten thousand nominations from 100 countries. A Blue Ribbon Panel selected the Top 10 CNN Heroes for the year. Voting for the CNN Hero of the Year continues through November 18th (6am ET) at CNNHeroes.com

ANURADHA KOIRALA
Editor's Note: Anuradha Koirala is fighting to prevent the trafficking and sexual exploitation of Nepal’s women and girls. Since 1993, she and her group, Maiti Nepal, have helped rescue and rehabilitate more than 12,000 victims.

The day I found out that I’d been selected as a Top 10 CNN Hero, I was in Delhi, India. I’d had meetings with Indian and Nepalese government officials, police officers and NGOs that are partnering with us regarding rescue and repatriation of Nepali girls; I also went to meet two Nepali girls at government remand home in Delhi.

I was very excited and thankful to get the news. I have a big family - about 2000 children and girls - this was a moment for us to cry, hug and remember how we started, what we have gained and where we are today.

I feel the Blue Ribbon Panel has recognized our work. It means they have given priority to this heinous crime against humanity. We have to fight against this crime and protect the children from this.

I would like to urge all the human beings around the world to please close your eyes and [imagine] these girls are your daughters and you will feel the pain of being trafficked.

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