https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/tacklingtrafficking

January is a designated month to raise awareness for human trafficking, or modern-day slavery, which includes both forced labor and sex trafficking. 

January 11th is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, also known as #WearBlueDay. The international color of human trafficking awareness is blue. You can show your support by taking a photo wearing blue and sharing it on social media with the hashtag #WearBlueDay. 

I met Abeni on the streets of Malaga, Spain. Our volunteer team went out to an industrial park area in a rented car to offer hot chocolate, snacks, hygiene kits, and human kindness to the women and men waiting for clients on dark corners. Most responded to the gifts as expected, but Abeni was more than grateful for conversation. When asked, “Can we pray for you?” she immediately went down on her knees on the dirty pavement, not caring about her fishnet hose or anything at all really. She asked that we pray for her children back in Africa, bowed her head and received the blessing.

Abeni is the reason I advocate for victims and survivors of sex trafficking.

Back at home I started volunteering at centers and shelters and learned about the many resources offered in my city such as medical care, legal services, and safe houses. It was the first time that I really looked at the homeless on our streets, went to their camps, and listened to stories of women traumatized by exploitation. I met Jessi, a vulnerable sex trafficking survivor living on the streets of my city. Our team helped in the process of finding her safe housing, healthcare services and counseling. Sadly, drug addiction and mental health issues related to Jessi’s trauma ended with a drug overdose. Jessi loved stuffed animals, makeup, reading her Bible and singing with a big big smile on her face.

Jessi is the reason I advocate for victims and survivors of sex trafficking.

What Can You Do?

Protect Your Family.  Statistics show that 70% of human trafficking begins online. Apps like Instagram and Snapchat and online gaming are the main access point for traffickers to groom young minors for trafficking. It’s important that adults talk with youth about online safety and monitor their activity. A21 provides a Parent Guide for talking to kids and teens:

Educate Yourself.  Grab a friend or group and watch a free Human Trafficking 101 video course.

Volunteer.  Learn about resources in your city such as shelters, and clinics and see how to donate or volunteer.  Join an awareness event in your city such as Unbound Now’s “Not in My City” campaign. It’s time that we stand up and say “Not In My City” to any and all forms of exploitation and trafficking. 

Report. National Human Trafficking Hotline

888-373-7888

SMS: Text INFO to 233733