January was first declared National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in 2010. Since then, the month has marked a time for bringing awareness to enslaved and trafficked individuals. While exact statistics for human trafficking are difficult to collect, it is well known that Indigenous and First Nation communities are especially vulnerable to human trafficking. Despite this heartbreaking reality, there is hope.
The most important, and perhaps sensitive task, is identifying victims and learning how to help. Key indicators of labor and sex trafficking include:
- Being fearful or extremely intimidated speaking to others
- Unwillingness to make eye contact
- Looking physically malnourished
- Showing physical signs of abuse, torture or injury
- Showing tattoos, burns or brands to indicate ownership
- Displaying signs of substance abuse and/or addiction tracks
- Being lethargic and/or incoherent
- Wearing clothing inappropriate for the climate
- Poor personal hygiene or not being allowed to bathe
- Receiving calls or texts that makes them want to leave immediately
- Having rehearsed responses
- Unable to access money or control their finances
Similar to those stated above, some red flags that may appear in relation to minors and children include:
- Cutting ties with usual family or friends
- Involving themselves in a subordinate relationship with an older “friend”
- Sudden drops in school performance/attendance
- Getting picked up/dropped off by a much older, unrelated person they describe as their boyfriend/girlfriend
- Referring to sexual situations that are beyond their developmental age
- Being accompanied by someone who monitors who they talk to and what they say
- Appearing in denial when asked about these situations
If suspected, it is recommended you not approach a potential trafficker or victim. Instead, it is vital to timely report any signs to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center by calling 1-888-373-7888 or texting “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733 (BEFREE).
Victims of human trafficking may feel fear or shame when speaking up about their situation. However, the only thing seen when opening up about abuse is strength.
It takes an army committed to learning, sharing, working and fighting to stop this scourge on our society. We hope this article sparks the need for anyone reading to further educate themselves and be a voice for those unheard.
