Phoenix Raises Awareness for National Human Trafficking Prevention Month -

The City of Phoenix continues its steadfast commitment to addressing human trafficking by observing National Human Trafficking Prevention Month every January. This initiative aims to shed light on a pervasive issue affecting communities nationwide, fostering awareness, providing resources, and supporting survivors.

Through its Mayor’s Human Trafficking Task Force and the Compass Plan, Phoenix has solidified its position as a national leader in combating human trafficking. This blog explores the city’s efforts, ongoing training opportunities, and ways you can participate in this crucial campaign.

The Mayor’s Human Trafficking Task Force: A Foundation for Change

In 2013, Phoenix launched the Mayor’s Human Trafficking Task Force, demonstrating its commitment to eradicating human trafficking. The task force focuses on five key pillars:

Law Enforcement: Strengthening investigative and prosecutorial approaches.
Victim Services: Expanding resources to assist survivors in their recovery.
Training: Educating professionals on identifying and addressing trafficking.
Awareness: Promoting public understanding of trafficking indicators.
Outreach: Engaging with at-risk communities to prevent trafficking.

These pillars are encapsulated in The Compass Plan, a comprehensive roadmap for combating human trafficking. Learn more about the plan at Phoenix.gov/CompassPlan.

City Hall Goes Blue for Awareness

Throughout January, Phoenix City Hall will be illuminated in blue as a symbol of solidarity with trafficking survivors and a call for collective action. Blue, recognized as the color of human trafficking awareness, underscores the city’s dedication to this cause.

Join the national conversation by exploring resources from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign, which works to raise awareness and combat trafficking across the country.

Human Trafficking: A Local and Global Issue

Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery that affects millions of people globally, including right here in Phoenix. Victims are exploited through force, fraud, or coercion, with traffickers preying on vulnerable individuals, including minors, immigrants, and those facing economic hardship.

For a deeper understanding of trafficking’s scope, consult the International Labour Organization’s report on global trafficking statistics.

Virtual Training Opportunities in January

To empower residents and professionals, the City of Phoenix offers free virtual training sessions throughout January. These sessions educate participants on how to recognize the signs of trafficking, report incidents, and support survivors.

Training Dates:

January 7, 9, 15, 16, 23, and 24

These sessions provide valuable insights for community members, educators, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement. For more information or to register, visit Phoenix.gov/CompassPlan.

How The Compass Plan Drives Change

The Compass Plan is Phoenix’s strategic framework for addressing human trafficking comprehensively. Key initiatives include:

Collaboration Across Sectors
The city partners with organizations like the National Human Trafficking Hotline to provide critical resources and connections for victims.
Victim-Centered Approach
Phoenix emphasizes trauma-informed care to ensure survivors receive compassionate, effective support.
Community Engagement
Outreach programs target vulnerable populations to prevent exploitation before it occurs.

Read about similar community-focused strategies at the Polaris Project’s website.

Why Training and Awareness Matter

Raising awareness about human trafficking is essential in combatting the issue. Training equips individuals to identify red flags and intervene effectively. Common signs of trafficking include:

Inconsistent personal stories or signs of being controlled.
Lack of personal identification or restricted freedom of movement.
Signs of physical abuse, malnutrition, or untreated medical issues.

For detailed guidance, visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children for educational materials on trafficking prevention.

How You Can Get Involved

Phoenix residents can support anti-trafficking efforts in several ways:

Participate in Training Sessions
Attend virtual training sessions offered by the city to learn how to identify and report trafficking.
Volunteer with Local Organizations
Support groups like Shared Hope International that work to prevent trafficking and aid survivors.
Raise Awareness
Use social media to spread the word using hashtags like #EndTrafficking and #HumanTraffickingAwarenessMonth.
Report Suspected Trafficking
If you suspect trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “BeFree” to 233733.

Human Trafficking Resources in Phoenix

Phoenix is home to several organizations that support trafficking survivors:

Phoenix Dream Center: Provides shelter and recovery services for survivors.
Visit Phoenix Dream Center to learn more.
StreetLightUSA: Specializes in caring for children who have been victims of trafficking.
Explore resources at StreetLightUSA.
UMOM New Day Centers: Focuses on ending homelessness, a significant risk factor for trafficking.
Visit UMOM New Day Centers for support options.

A National Movement: Building a Safer Future

Phoenix’s efforts align with national initiatives to combat trafficking, including the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), which provides federal resources for prevention and prosecution.

The city’s commitment serves as a model for other municipalities, showcasing how local governments can lead the charge in addressing systemic issues like human trafficking.

Conclusion

As Phoenix observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, it invites residents to join the fight against human trafficking through awareness, education, and action. Programs like The Compass Plan and virtual training opportunities empower the community to stand with survivors and work toward a safer, more equitable future.

To learn more, explore these resources:

Together, we can end trafficking and build a community where everyone is free from exploitation.