January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
While the idea of slavery seems antiquated and dated, across the nation, there is a concerted effort by law enforcement and organizations to eliminate human trafficking. Unite in the cause and connect with the determined people and effort to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking in your community.
According to the International Labor Organization, there are approximately 40 million human trafficking victims worldwide. Through a variety of schemes including violence and threats, traffickers force their victims into forced labor or commercial sex against their wishes.
To the casual observer, it seems victims would be the poor, weak or a minority, however, every gender, race, religion and social-economic background can be impacted by human trafficking. In many ways, this matter belongs to every community in the country.
Reading the statistics, it seems a bleak dark picture of human trafficking, however, there are ways to take action. The number one thing is to become informed and get involved.
Get informed. Learn how human trafficking is happening. Visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign to inform yourself about what human trafficking looks like.
Get plugged in. If you feel or suspect human trafficking report it. In the U.S. call 1-866-347-2423. For more information visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign. You can also volunteer through organizations committed to eliminating human trafficking. Contact local, state and regional service organizations to volunteer time, services or a donation.
Get help. If you need help, call 1-888-373-7888. Visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign.
