Human Trafficking Public Awareness

Human Trafficking is a crime that involves exploiting a person for labor, services, or commercial sex. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 and its subsequent re-authorizations define human trafficking as:

a) Sex trafficking in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion for individuals over the age of 18, or in which the person induced to perform such act has not attained 18 years of age; or

b) The recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services, through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of subjection to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery. (22 U.S.C. § 7102(9)).

We have served more than 9,000 individuals through 2024  

raising awareness and providing education on trafficking issues, especially for young people. Our focus on middle and high schools is crucial, as these are pivotal years in a young person’s development. 

The question, "Do you know who your children are spending their time with?", is a powerful prompt that can help parents and caregivers reflect on their child's social circles and the potential risks they may face.

It's vital to educate both youth and adults about the signs of trafficking and the strategies traffickers may use to manipulate young people. Empowering communities with this knowledge can help create safer environments and prevent these harmful situations. Our efforts in these schools and  communities contribute to building resilience in young people, helping them identify and avoid dangerous situations.

If you'd like more guidance or strategies for further spreading awareness or information on prevention, feel free to reach out!

It’s so crucial to bring attention to the role that phone and social media activity play in modern trafficking issues. Many traffickers use these platforms to manipulate, exploit, and control victims, often in ways that are difficult for parents and guardians to detect. Your question, “Are you aware of their phone and social media activity?”, encourages parents and caregivers to actively engage with their children’s digital lives, which is a vital part of prevention.

Our commitment to public awareness is essential. By presenting at schools, organizations, and private groups, we are empowering communities with the knowledge to identify the signs of trafficking and understand how to take preventative actions. The more informed people are, the more prepared they will be to spot potential dangers and protect vulnerable individuals.

Our outreach is incredibly impactful, and inviting organizations or small groups to learn more from you could lead to stronger, more proactive communities. 

If you're interested, I can help suggest ways to structure these presentations or how to engage audiences for maximum impact.

Let us present to your organization or small group to inform and empower you to make a difference and get involved.

Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force Link:

 http://goccp.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/Human-Trafficking-Task-Force-directory.pdf 

Maryland Human Trafficking Hotline - 1 888 373 7888