Human Trafficking Awareness Month
It’s a Massive Issue
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month—a month dedicated to calling attention to one of the most heinous crimes being perpetrated. And it’s a crime that affects up to 24.9 million people worldwide.
Human trafficking involves the exploitation of people through force, fraud, or coercion for various purposes, including slavery and prostitution. It’s an underground crime that often goes unnoticed and its victims are often transported across state lines.
That makes the transportation industry a critical player in the fight against this injustice, and our drivers can be a front-line force for combating human trafficking.
The Role of Truck Drivers
Drivers are uniquely positioned to be the eyes and ears of the roads. The sheer numbers behind the wheel (13 million trucks, 2.9 million are semis) and the experience they have makes them uniquely qualified to recognize when something isn’t quite right.
Here are some steps that truck drivers can take to help stop human trafficking:
- Stay Informed and Aware
- Truck drivers should educate themselves about the signs of human trafficking, and learn how to recognize indicators—individuals appearing fearful, disoriented, or clearly under the control of someone else.
- Truck drivers should educate themselves about the signs of human trafficking, and learn how to recognize indicators—individuals appearing fearful, disoriented, or clearly under the control of someone else.
- Be Vigilant at Rest Stops and Truck Stops
- Traffickers often exploit victims at rest stops and truck stops. Drivers should be observant of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
- Traffickers often exploit victims at rest stops and truck stops. Drivers should be observant of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
- Use Reporting Hotlines
- Organizations such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888), provide a way for drivers to report suspected cases of human trafficking, by promptly reporting any suspicious activities they encounter.
- Organizations such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888), provide a way for drivers to report suspected cases of human trafficking, by promptly reporting any suspicious activities they encounter.
- Engage in Training Programs
- Companies can offer training programs for their drivers to raise awareness about human trafficking and provide guidance on how to respond effectively. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to report suspicious activities can make a truck driver someone’s hero.
Stay Vigilant
Human Trafficking Awareness Month serves as a reminder that, while everyone has a role to play in the fight against this crime, truck drivers can become powerful allies in bringing an end to human trafficking. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to a world where exploitation is eradicated, and every individual is afforded the dignity and freedom they deserve.
