Human Trafficking: A call to action for our community

In December Walsh Jesuit raised $500 for survivors of human trafficking. This money will be given to Survivor’s Ink, an organization that sponsors the removal of victims’ “brandings,” described in the first article of this series. Anyone can help end human trafficking, and fundraisers constitute one of many ways to help the cause.

Another way to fight human trafficking includes spreading the word about the dangers associated with it. “In general, awareness is the key to successfully combat human trafficking,” explained Detective Brett Reynolds of the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department. Human trafficking continues to be so profitable solely because most people remain oblivious to the fact that it occurs within their communities.

Awareness about this issue gives one the ability to spot potential human trafficking cases. “It is important to know when a family member or friend is involving themselves in this very dangerous activity. They might not even believe what they are doing is wrong or bad at the time, and intervening could save their life,” emphasized Reynolds.

How exactly does one know if an individual is being trafficked? According to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, there are multiple warning signs that a young person is a human trafficking victim:

• Has a significant other who is much older
• Moves often
• Runs away from home
• Shows signs of abuse and malnourishment
• Seems to be controlled (rarely alone, kept away from family and friends)
• Does not have any form of identification

If a situation appears suspicious, most likely something is wrong. Do not be afraid to talk to a trusted adult if an individual appears to be trafficked. Hotlines such as the Human Trafficking Resource Center (888-373-7888) can also provide advice on potential cases.

At Walsh Jesuit, some teachers have taken the initiative to spread awareness of this horrific crime. Mrs. Krueger’s British Literature classes read The Pioneer’s series on human trafficking and then discussed the issue. “Before the discussion, I didn’t really care to learn about human trafficking. I don’t think many people in our society do because they fail to realize its implications,” stated junior Kareem Muakkassa. “The discussion we had in class was a real eye-opener to all of us students, and such discussions help make Ohio and the rest of the United States safer.” Incorporating human trafficking awareness into a school’s curriculum provides students with valuable life-saving information and should be encouraged.

Human trafficking ranks as the second most profitable crime in the world. Fortunately, it is also one that can be stopped simply through creating awareness. This abominable crime will continue to devastate the lives of its victims until everyone does his or her part to stop it. Only then will change truly occur.