Join the nationwide effort to combat human trafficking as we delve into National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Unmask the shadows by empowering yourself with key questions to recognize potential trafficking situations. Stand united in reporting and eradicating this grave violation of human rights. Beyond January, the call to unveil the truth remains a year-round responsibility for a safer and more secure future.
January is a month of renewed commitment and heightened awareness in the United States, as it is annually recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Since 2010, each president has proclaimed this month, reaffirming the government’s dedication to combating the pervasive issue of human trafficking in all its forms. In lockstep with this commitment, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana stands firm in its resolve to prioritize the fight against forced labor, domestic servitude, and sex trafficking of both children and adults throughout the District.
Human Trafficking
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson, a vocal advocate in the battle against human trafficking, underscores the pivotal role of recognizing potential trafficking situations and encourages citizens to take the further step of reporting these activities to law enforcement. Johnson’s office is not just committed to working with state and local partners but also collaborates with non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, trauma-informed service providers, and community leaders. The collective goal is to support victims, prevent trafficking where possible, and prosecute those engaged in these reprehensible acts. Johnson emphasizes that the community’s active involvement in identifying and reporting ‘red flags’ significantly enhances the effectiveness of efforts to combat human trafficking.
To empower individuals in recognizing potential trafficking scenarios, a set of questions has been provided as a guide:
- Has the victim been forced or coerced into performing commercial sex acts?
- Is the victim under the age of 18 and engaged in commercial sex?
- Can the victim freely contact friends or family without being coached or monitored?
- Is someone severely limiting the victim’s freedom of movement?
- Has the victim or their family been threatened with harm if they attempt to leave?
- Has the victim been harmed or deprived of basic necessities such as food, water, sleep, or medical care?
- Does the victim possess their own travel or identification documents?
- Are the victim’s wages being unlawfully garnished to pay off a debt or fee?
- Is the victim allowed to socialize or attend religious services?
- Has the victim been threatened with deportation or criminal charges?
These questions are not just a checklist but a powerful tool to create awareness and empower the community to actively participate in combating human trafficking. If any answer to these questions raises concerns, the U.S. Attorney’s Office urges individuals to join the collective effort and report the information.
Whether you are a victim, suspect you know one, or have witnessed a situation that may involve trafficking, reaching out to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (or text HELP or INFO to BeFree at 233733), or your local law enforcement is of paramount importance. In cases of immediate danger, dial 911. For situations involving a child, submit a tip through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Call Center at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
The commitment to combat human trafficking extends far beyond the designated awareness month. It is an everyday responsibility that necessitates vigilance, education, and collaboration. The shadows cast by these heinous crimes can only be dispelled through a united front, where communities actively engage in eradicating this grave violation of human rights.
The fight against human trafficking is not confined to legal entities alone. It is a battle that requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, awareness, and proactive community participation. As United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson rightly emphasizes, “We are most effective in addressing these situations when the community joins with us to recognize and report’red flags’ that may indicate a trafficking situation.”
Awareness months serve as a catalyst for collective action, but the fight against human trafficking demands sustained commitment year-round. It is a societal issue that transcends borders, demographics, and socio-economic statuses. By standing united, we can not only raise awareness but also actively contribute to the eradication of human trafficking, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all.