January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month
January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, established in 2010 to raise awareness, fight this global crime, and protect at-risk groups.January is recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, an observance first declared in 2010 by President Obama and continued by each president since. During this month, efforts by foreign governments, international organizations, faith communities, businesses, survivor advocates, and private citizens worldwide converge to highlight the devastating impact of human trafficking and to encourage prevention. This global crime, also referred to as the illegal exploitation of a person for labor or sex, is perpetuated by traffickers who often lure victims with false promises of well-paying jobs or romantic relationships. Vulnerable populations, including individuals exposed to child abuse, sexual assault, or community violence, are disproportionately targeted. Alarmingly, nearly 30% of homeless youth in Anchorage reported experiencing human trafficking, according to a recent study by Loyola University. Moreover, data from Anchorage’s Covenant House revealed that a disproportionate number of those affected were Alaska Native.
Despite these numbers, in the U.S. there have been significant efforts to combat this pressing issue. For instance, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) laid the groundwork for the United States’ commitment to addressing this issue on both domestic and international fronts. In addition, in 2017, the State Department launched its largest anti-trafficking program, the Program to End Modern Slavery and in 2021, the National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking. However, solving this issue requires everyone’s collaboration. Therefore, it’s imperative for you to know the warning signs of trafficking, such as unexplained absences, excessive tiredness, physical injuries, new tattoos symbolizing ownership, or sudden access to expensive clothing. Potential red flags also include older companions exhibiting controlling, jealous, or violent behavior, as well as individuals who encourage engagement in illegal activities or push for inappropriate sexual behavior. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, it is crucial not to intervene directly, as doing so could endanger both the victim and you. Instead, call 911 immediately and inform the authorities of the situation. By uniting in recognition of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, communities foster understanding of how to identify trafficking and mobilize the resources necessary to combat it effectively. This includes celebrating the progress made under the TVPA and reaffirming our commitment to eradicating trafficking in all its forms. Through heightened vigilance and prompt reporting of suspected cases, each of us can play a part in saving lives and preventing future exploitation. Let us stand with survivors and help support the vital mission of holding traffickers accountable while ensuring that at-risk populations receive the protection they desperately need. |