By Human trafficking is a silent crime that is forgotten by many. It is estimated that 40.3 million victims worldwide suffer from the trappings of human trafficking. One in every four are children. This is a huge number to remain undetected by the public and seen as a minor problem. The human trafficking facts 2021 will open your eyes to an escalating problem in our nation.
Victims’ rights groups continue to be active in bringing the facts to the public through the media with national trends and statistics. It may be surprising to learn that human trafficking has been on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.
The states with the largest increases in 2019 are:
- Texas
- California
- Florida
- Ohio
- New York
No state is exempt from human trafficking, forced labor, prostitution, involuntary servitude, sexual servitude, and other similar crimes. As the news becomes more widespread, there are steps that the public can take to help stop these types of crimes from occurring in our society. Here are some ways that you can help stop human trafficking in your area and beyond.
1. Use Social Media to Spread the Word
It takes money to equip law enforcement, supply group homes, and fund the legal system to fight the human trafficking effort. Investigations, caring for victims, and prosecution for criminals are not high-profile concerns in a shady industry. Members use the internet and events with thousands of people present to laundry their deceitful ways of promoting human trafficking. Many online companies are joining the effort to provide funding, like Amazon and Facebook, to match funds to counter human trafficking. Organizations, like DeliverFund, then train, advise and equip the right operations to take action. Join them in their efforts or begin a fundraising effort of your own.
2. Be Aware of Signs of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking can be hard to detect. There are not always outward signs of abuse and neglect that can trigger questions about behavior. There are several types of trafficking that are never seen. Here are some variations of how human trafficking takes place:
- Familial trafficking. Almost half of all human trafficking victims begin at home. Sex or child labor is hidden from the public and traded for profit. On the outside, a family can appear well-adjusted, but will stay tight-lipped about home activities.
- Hotel and motel distribution. Not everyone that visits a hotel or motel should be scrutinized as a sex offender or human trafficker. However, if any of these signs are present, call the police and the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline. They are trained to make discreet determinations.
— A third party appearing to be monitoring a hallway or door
— Abandoned or locked out young adults on property
— Guests insistent upon knowing the placement of surveillance equipment
However, if you believe anyone is in imminent danger, always contact the police immediately.
- “Job” offers that are too good to be true. Everyone wants to feel important. However, when an associate offers a job that has an upfront fee or a job far from home, take notice. If the appointment seems too good to be true, it usually is. Keep a very close eye on your friend or family member and insist to check out the offer for yourself.
3. Raise Awareness
Too many people feel that their close-knit community could never be the target of human trafficking. Get the facts, spread the word of human trafficking raids nearby, and convince everyone to look at the facts. There are group homes set up in small towns that house underage victims that have suffered from sexual abuse and human trafficking. Share flyers noting real scenarios to draw attention to how real this situation is. Volunteer whenever you can, however you can.
The use of the internet is another tool that predators rely on to attract underage individuals. Making them feel loved is a ploy that works many times. Take the time to talk with your kids regarding any problems they may feel are overwhelming so they do not seek the advice of strangers. Most strangers are just using the young and naive as a target for financial gain through human trafficking.