January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month

One of the first official recognitions of the years starts in January with Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to bring attention to the forced labor and sex trafficking of millions of people around the globe.

Specifically, more than 24.9 million people — adults and children — are thought to be subjected to human trafficking around the world, including in the United States. It’s a significant problem in Ohio, with the state ranking fourth in the nation for human-trafficking cases (Spectrum News, October 2022).

The Ohio Attorney General reports statewide antitrafficking task forces received 627 tips, which led to 621 victim interviews and referrals for services in 2021 alone. Trafficking tips come in through hotline numbers, emails, calls from concerned community members, parents, social service providers, law enforcement, and health care providers, among others.

During the month of January, the U.S. Department of State recommends learning the indicators of human trafficking and how to spot potential victims. Victims may be living with their employer in poor conditions and with multiple other people. They may be unable to speak to anyone alone and show signs of physical abuse. Victims may be submissive and fearful and respond in rehearsed or scripted statements.

NEED HELP?

1 (888) 373-7888

National Human Trafficking Hotline

SMS: 233733 (Text "HELP" or "INFO")

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Languages: English, Spanish and 200 more language

Website: http://humantraffickinghotline.org

Trafficking victims, whether they are U.S. citizens or not, are eligible for services and immigration assistance.