The semester comes to an end and most students start focusing on passing exams. In my case I have been reflecting about my research on human trafficking.
Human Trafficking is basically coercion of another person into some type of forced labor or sexual exploitation. It is not just foreign citizens that are at risk; men, women, children, US and internationally born can be victims. So you would think that, with that being the case, there would be more of an uproar at this injustice. I started off thinking that it would be easy to explain and expose, I was clearly wrong. It is much harder to spot than one would think.
Most of the indications of trafficking are subtle and often go unnoticed. The victim is not allowed to talk to anyone without some kind of supervision, usually a trafficker. The victim often seems malnourished, anxious, avoids eye contact, and unable to give any definitive answers on home address or even city he/she is in. They also have no control over their own ID and documents, little to no pocket money, and works excessively long hours. Being aware of some of the signs can only help next time you go out. Many common instances of human trafficking happen at businesses like nail salons, massage parlors, large factories or farms, and many other small businesses.
All fifty states in the US have reported some form of human trafficking. Based on UNICEF estimates there are an average of 1,167 people enslaved in New Hampshire. The reason that this problem continues is that there are high profits and low risk for traffickers. Not many people are aware of or notice cues of trafficking. People need to understand that slavery is still going on in the world and much closer to your home than you may think. Visit Polaris Project to learn more about resources and recent cases involving human trafficking.
The most important thing that anyone can do if they suspect a case of human trafficking is to:
Call: The National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888
Email: nhtrc@polarisproject.org
Text: BeFree (233733)
I urge anyone that has an interest in a lesser known topic to enroll in an independent study. This type of class gives you the opportunity to expand your knowledge and more importantly share it with people. I know that my passion for ending human trafficking will continue well beyond just the classroom.
