As you start conversations about human trafficking awareness, what is the most important information? Read these 5 things everyone should know about. 

It’s happening in your neighborhood.

According to the human trafficking hotline, human trafficking victims have been found in cities, suburbs, and rural areas in all 50 states of the U.S. in legitimate  business settings as well as underground markets. 

There is a misunderstanding that human trafficking just happens at the mall bathroom or street corner downtown, but trafficking can happen to vulnerable individuals anywhere. 

Most human trafficking is not for sex.

According to the International Labour Organization’s estimates, more children are trafficked for labor than sex. 

Anyone can be a victim.

Although there are some populations more likely to be trafficked, including runaway and homeless youth as well as people with disabilities, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, anyone of any gender or race is susceptible to human trafficking.

 

Any minor induced into sex is considered a trafficking victim.

According to the Blue Campaign, the U.S. government’s campaign to end human trafficking, “Under U.S. federal law, any minor under the age of 18 who is induced to perform commercial sex acts is a victim of human trafficking, regardless of whether he or she is forced or coerced.” 

 

Everyone can do something to help trafficking victims.

Learn the red flags to see if you or someone you know is being lured into trafficking. 

Consider contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline if you see something suspicious. Call 1-888-373-7888, text HELP to BEFREE (233733). 

Be conscious how you shop. Many of the goods and services bought everyday are made by slave labor. Calculate your slavery footprint to see how much of what you buy is made by forced labor. 

Volunteer locally by searching for a nonprofit near you. 

Lastly, start conversations about anti-human trafficking to bring more awareness. Our “End Human Trafficking” Blue wristband boldly displays the message in white-filled letters and is a great conversation starter. It also has the human trafficking hotline debossed on the inside. Every change ever made in history always began with awareness of the need for it.