For the last several months I have been working on training development that helps law enforcement recognize the indicators of human trafficking. Now I am in the middle of a project that addresses the issues of trafficking of children.
It seems even more egregious that children are the victims of traffickers. They are the most vulnerable members of society and the most easily victimized. In addition to law enforcement officers other first responders can help. Fire fighters, paramedics, hospital staff and even code enforcement officers can make a difference. They need to look beneath the surface, dig a little deeper and if they ask the right questions they can help these innocent young victims.
Educating first responders is only the first step, the public needs to be more informed so they can recognize the indicators. These young victims live amongst us and are hiding in plain sight. They just need a little help to get out of this modern day form of slavery.
If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at: 1-888-3737-888
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Wow. Just found this post and the one prior to it. I am stunned that it could be - maybe is - happening locally. My sister-in-law is heading to Thailand shortly to support the work being done there. Stunned by this irony also.
ReplyDeleteThanks for writing this.
Scott
I have had young teens come to my door selling magazine subscriptions. They weren't from my city or area. They told me they were brought from the south hoping for work. Because of this post I surmised that if these young girls didn't get their quota of subscriptions they had to hit the streets to make up the quota. They were prostituted against their wishes. Next time a child comes to your door selling a product, take a second look. This could be a person being trafficked and too young and immature to ask for help.......sk.
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