Human Trafficking Awareness Month In 2000, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act went into effect as a reflection of the United States’ commitment to combating human trafficking domestically and internationally. President Biden then proclaimed, in January 2023, that this month would be National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Human trafficking includes both forced labor and sex trafficking. There are estimated to be more than 27.6 million people – adults and children – subjected to human trafficking around the world, including the United States. There is a three-element framework used to form a human trafficking violation; acts, means, and purpose. The “acts” element includes the recruitment, harboring, transport, providing, or obtaining. The “means” element includes coercion, debt manipulation, withholding of pay, reputational harm, manipulation of addictive substances, or threats to others. The “purpose” element focused on the perpetrator’s goal for exploitation in terms of labor or sex. Red flags for potential trafficking situations include:- Job offers that appear too good to be true.
- Signs of physical abuse (bruises, scars, burns, etc.).
- A new relationship with significant difference in age or financial status.
- Withdrawal from other social supports and activities.
- The individual appears to be coached or cannot speak freely.
If you see or suspect indicators that someone you know may be in danger of trafficking, help is available. Do not attempt to confront a suspected trafficker. The National Human Trafficking Helpline is available 24/7/365. It is a nongovernmental organization dedicated to helping victims of trafficking. They can be reached by calling 888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733) or, if there is immediate danger, call 911. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (1/20/2025) This day of remembrance was signed into law in 1994 as a reminder of Dr. Martin Luther King’s life of service to civil rights. It is celebrated annually on the 3rd Monday in the month of January, close to King’s birthday, January 15th. This day serves as a reminder to act in his teachings of courage, truth, respect, integrity, humility, and service. Dr. King said, “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Visit https://www.americorps.gov/serve/volunteer/mlk-day/mlk-day-resources to learn how you can observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day. |