If you’ve been following our blog series for National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, you’re probably left with one big question: “What can I do about this?” Awareness is an important first step, as is knowing the signs of trafficking. If you missed our last post on possible indicators, you can read it here. As a modern day abolitionist, though, there’s much more we can do to end the trafficking, slavery, and the exploitation of our fellow humans.
Stay informed
Americans around the country are gearing up for the largest football party of the year. Chances are you’ll see articles on social media connecting large events like Sunday’s game to an uptick in sex trafficking. It’s true; these events lead to reports of exploitation. However, the truth is that trafficking occurs all year round, in all corners of the country.
Stories around these issues tend to be sensationalized, good for shock value and tweetability, but it’s important to dig deeply into the facts and figures and avoid spreading misinformation, which may ultimately do more harm than good.
Partner with leaders in the fight
Fortunately, a number of non-profit organizations work every day to identify, disrupt, and dismantle trafficking organizations. Here are just a few:
- Polaris Project (polarisproject.org)
- Slavery Footprint (slaveryfootprint.org)
- International Justice Mission (ijm.org)
- Safe Horizon (safehorizon.org)
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (missingkids.com)
Other resources for modern day abolitionists
If you encounter a situation in which you suspect someone is a victim of modern day slavery, labor exploitation, or human trafficking, you can reach out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline 24/7 at 1-888-373-7888, or text HELP to 233733 (BEFREE) any time of the day or night. These numbers will connect you with local services that can get the victim the help they need.
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