Human Trafficking, concept image by Tapas Kumar Halder, Author Tapas Kumar Halder, (CC BY-SA 4.0 International)
We conclude our discussion of the blight of human trafficking with suggestions as to how the public can prevent and respond to this profound evil [1].
What You Can Do
Concerned as they may be, most people are overwhelmed by the magnitude of human trafficking — at a loss for how they can make a difference. But there are things the average person can do [2]:
- Become educated about human trafficking, and stay alert to the situations people may be experiencing.
- Share information about human trafficking with family, friends, neighbors, business associates, and fellow bloggers.
- Support local anti-trafficking organizations, either financially or by volunteering. Pro bono attorneys are especially needed. An online directory of community organizations is available here: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/find-local-services.
- Buy with care. Consider where (and by whom) food, clothing, jewelry, electronics, and other items were produced. An extensive list of items made by forced labor or child labor can be found here: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/reports/child-labor/list-of-goods.
- Get help for a family member, co-worker, student, tenant, patient, or someone else in need. The National Human Trafficking Hotline https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/contact provides free confidential support, 24/7. Call 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733 (BEFREE).
- Partner with the schools, healthcare providers, and other institutions and professionals serving those experiencing human trafficking. Together with them, craft student safety programs for children at risk, fair workplace protocols, and ethical procurement practices at places of employment. Work for safe and affordable housing, and accessible healthcare.
- Speak out. Inquire what elected representatives are doing about human trafficking. Urge that trafficking be made a priority.
ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse 