Human trafficking is an extremely scary reality for many people. Often the people living in impoverished areas are the main target. The victims are stolen from their homes and promised a better life or a way to provide for their family or get an education. Sadly, these are simply false promises used as bait to lure in new victims. They are then forced to obey their owners in order to survive. 

Human trafficking effects a broad range of people, but for the most part, women and children are targeted. The people are soon shipped all over the world, including throughout the U.S., where most citizens are completely unaware of the existence of trafficking in their communities. 

It could be taking place right in your community, how would you know?

After the victims have been taken they are sold and shipped off, then must abide by their owners wishes in order to remain alive. Whether the victims are forced into sexual exploitation or sold into the labor industry, both outcomes are tragic. 

Sex trafficking is the most common form of trafficking. The traffickers take the victims, (usually 12-17 yr. old children), then sell them to slaveholders who deal in commercial sex, for example, pimps, owners of strip clubs, sex bars, brothels, karaoke clubs, or massage parlors. The slaveholder locks them up and takes all their possessions.

Forced labor is the other main form of trafficking. Children are the prime target for this industry as well. Similar to the sex industry, recruiters come talk with families and offer them what seems like a great opportunity for their children. In reality they are actually being tricked and their kids will be sold and serve as slaves. There is an abundance of products made with the use of forced labor and in most cases the consumers have no idea. For example, chocolate, blueberries, or coffee.