By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS
In recent months, Tim Ballard, a name synonymous with the global fight against child sex trafficking, has been the target of vicious and unfounded attacks. These attacks, orchestrated by a mix of opportunistic media outlets, political adversaries, and shadowy figures seeking to dismantle his work, are not only false but also a desperate attempt to tarnish the reputation of a man who has devoted his life to rescuing children from unspeakable evil. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the destructive nature of propaganda and false narratives, I feel compelled to address this issue and shed light on what Tim Ballard has truly accomplished.
The False Allegations
The allegations against Ballard range from personal misconduct to baseless accusations of impropriety in his work with Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.), the organization he founded. These claims have largely been amplified by mainstream outlets and leftist commentators who, ironically, show little interest in addressing the root problem Ballard has dedicated his life to combatting: the global epidemic of child exploitation and trafficking.
Critics often fail to provide credible evidence to support their accusations, instead relying on hearsay and vague insinuations. This pattern of attacks mirrors what I have experienced in my own life, having faced slander and misrepresentation during my tenure in leadership roles within Muslim organizations before embracing Christianity and conservatism. These tactics are all too familiar: attack the character to discredit the mission.
The Work of a True Hero
Tim Ballard’s work speaks for itself. O.U.R. has been instrumental in rescuing thousands of children from trafficking rings worldwide. His efforts have exposed not only the networks of traffickers but also the complicity of powerful entities that benefit from this horrific trade. Ballard’s operations often place him and his team in direct danger, confronting cartels, corrupt officials, and sophisticated criminal networks.
The enemies of this mission are not small-time criminals but international networks with vast resources and connections. The recent smears against him should be understood in this context: Ballard and his team have disrupted powerful interests, and these interests are now retaliating.
Framing the Defender of the Innocent
It is no coincidence that the attacks against Ballard began escalating as his work gained more prominence. The release of The Sound of Freedom, a movie inspired by his life and mission, brought the issue of child trafficking into mainstream consciousness. While the film was a call to action for millions, it also drew the ire of those who prefer these crimes to remain in the shadows.
The framing of Ballard by his enemies serves multiple purposes: it aims to discredit his work, discourage potential supporters, and divert attention from the real culprits of child exploitation. As someone who has encountered similar smear campaigns during my activism, I can confidently say that these attacks are a hallmark of those threatened by truth and justice.
A Christian Perspective
As a Christian conservative, I view Tim Ballard’s mission as profoundly Christ-like. Christ Himself admonished us to protect the most vulnerable among us, saying, “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6, NKJV). Ballard’s work embodies this principle, and his actions have given hope to countless children and families.
Standing with Tim Ballard
The attacks against Ballard should not deter us from supporting his mission. Instead, they should galvanize us to stand by him as he continues his vital work. His detractors, whether driven by political motivations or personal vendettas, cannot erase the lives he has saved or the evil he has exposed.
Having spent years navigating complex political and social landscapes, I recognize the importance of discernment in evaluating public figures. Tim Ballard’s record is one of selflessness and courage, and no amount of slander can change that.
Conclusion
In this battle between good and evil, Tim Ballard has chosen the side of light. As Christians, conservatives, and moral individuals, we must reject the lies and support those who fight for the voiceless. Ballard’s enemies may seek to destroy him, but they will not succeed in silencing the truth or stopping the tide of justice he has unleashed.
Citations
- "Operation Underground Railroad: About Us." Operation Underground Railroad. https://ourrescue.org
- Treene, Alyssa. "Tim Ballard Responds to Allegations Amid 'Sound of Freedom' Success." Axios, 2023. https://www.axios.com
- "The Sound of Freedom: A Box Office Success with a Message." Variety, 2023. https://www.variety.com
- "Matthew 18:6." Holy Bible, New King James Version.
- Smith, Brent. "The Global Epidemic of Child Trafficking: A Call to Action." The Federalist, 2023. https://thefederalist.com
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