National Slavery and Human Trafficking Month has been observed every January since 2010.
This month is observed and dedicated to raising awareness and educating people about human trafficking. Each year, federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and organizations such as Polaris focus on different aspects of human trafficking.
Human trafficking or trafficking in persons is a crime that forces a person into labor, domestic services and/or participation in commercial sex acts against their will. Trafficking may not always be forceful or physical, it can also be subtle or psychological.
Victims of human trafficking can be anyone – children, teenagers and adults of all genders. But many people are often preyed upon because of their disadvantages. Traffickers use their victims’ disadvantages against them by making false promises of a better future.
People who are trafficked for sex are tricked or controlled by someone they know, like a boyfriend, girlfriend or even a family member. These traffickers use lies, threats or emotional abuse to take advantage of them.
Since traffickers are known personally to their target, it can be hard to tell if they are being trafficked. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of human trafficking. If someone is:
- Scared and/or anxious, nervous and/or paranoid especially after law enforcement is brought up.
- Avoiding eye contact.
- Having little control over their money or ID.
- Has no access to health care.
- Shows signs of physical and/or sexual abuse.
- No sense of time and no knowledge of whereabouts.
- Not allowed to speak for themselves (someone else may insist on being present).
- Many inconsistencies in their story.
Victims of human trafficking have different experiences.
Some people are more at risk because of their gender, race or are in tough economic situations. These factors all connect and create unique challenges – this is called intersectionality. When it comes to sex trafficking, these challenges often affect a person’s ability to make decisions about their own body.
People who have been sex trafficked face challenges in gaining access to reproductive healthcare and are often exploited in healthcare settings. Their traffickers are usually present at doctor’s appointments and control their access to healthcare. The victim may be forced to undergo a forced pregnancy or abortion because they do not have the ability to make decisions about their own body.
To overcome and prevent human trafficking, it is important to support organizations that are fighting against human trafficking:
Learning about human trafficking and talking about it with others is one of the best ways to end it. When we understand what trafficking looks like, we can work together to protect people and support those who need help.
If you ever see something that does not feel right or think someone might be in trouble, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. You can also text 233733 (BEFREE). These numbers are there to help.
By staying informed and speaking up, we can all make a difference. Together, we can create a world where no one is hurt or taken advantage of.
