Human trafficking is a serious global problem. Some estimates suggest that as many as 20 million people are victims of human trafficking at any given time. Most of these victims are women and girls. They are forced into prostitution, domestic servitude, or other types of labor.
Many people think of human trafficking as something that only happens in other countries. But the truth is, it happens right here in the United States. Every year, thousands of men, women, and children are trafficked within our borders. They are forced to work in factories, on farms, in homes, or in the sex trade.
Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery. It is a multi-billion-dollar industry that exploits vulnerable people for labor or sex. Traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to control their victims. They often prey on people who are struggling to make ends meet or who have little support from family or friends.
Human trafficking is a hidden crime. Victims are often afraid to come forward because they fear retribution from their traffickers. They may also be afraid of being deported if they are undocumented immigrants. As a result, many cases go unreported.
If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, there are ways you can help. You can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 to report a tip or get help for someone you suspect is being trafficked. You can also text “HELP” to 233733 to get 24/7 crisis support from trained counselors at the National Sexual Assault Hotline
