Human Trafficking is modern-day slavery. Young children, teenagers, men and women are victims of modern-day slavery. They are subjected to force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of sexual exploitation or forced labor.
Modern-day slavery involves the ongoing exploitation of victims who are forced to work against their will. It does not require the crossing of an international border, it does not even require that victims be transported from one locale to another. Victims of severe forms of trafficking are not all illegal aliens; they may, in fact, be United States Citizens, legal residents, or visitors.
Some of the root causes for modern-day slavery are; in search of a better life, the breakdown of the family structure, an economic hardship, conflict, crime, social violence, and natural disasters. Such stresses create a desperate situation for millions of people and make them vulnerable to various forms of exploitation and enslavement. Victims of trafficking never consented to their situation!
Victim Identification
While there is no set formula to use in identifying persons that are victims of modern-day slavery, the following list will serve as a guideline.
1. Evidence of being controlled; victims are kept under surveillance, they may not speak English, the trafficker might act as a translator.
2. Victims are never seen alone. They live on the same property as they work.
3. The work place may have heavy security, including barred windows, locked doors, electronic surveillance, and located in an isolated location.
4. There could be high foot traffic; a stream of men arriving and leaving the premises.
5. Signs of malnutrition, dehydration or poor personal hygiene; bruises or other signs of battering, and inappropriately dressed for the weather.
6. Victims are fearful, extremely nervous, and do not make eye contact.
Every day, between 1.3 and 2.8 million runaway and homeless youth live on the streets of America. One out of three will be lured into prostitution within 48 hours of leaving home.
If you think you have come into contact with a victim of modern-day slavery, or you need help, call 1-888-373-7888 or dial 9-1-1
