Ending modern day slavery in the U.S.

Local human trafficking often occurs at massage parlors, hotels, restaurants, casinos and truck stops. All of these can be in the form of sex or labor or both. When visiting places such as these, take note of the frequency of new employees. If you suspect human trafficking, call the human trafficking hotline or local law enforcement. Even if you are not positive the person is being trafficked, any small tip could save a person’s life.

In order to stop human trafficking, the demand must be stopped. Men need to join in the fight against trafficking. Because most of the victims are women, men may think that the issue does not affect them as much. However, men are the primary demand that keep human trafficking alive, and they need to be involved to end it as well.

The National Human Trafficking Resource Center has a 24/7 toll-free hotline to call with tips or evidence of human trafficking. The hotline is also available for victims if they are able to access a phone. The number is 1-888-373-7888.

You can also contact your local representatives and senators or Governor Phil Bryant and urge them to increase the penalties for trafficking and enact safe harbor laws in Mississippi.

The greatest thing we can do to end human trafficking is spread awareness. Trafficking is everywhere, but it remains in the shadows. Tell someone about human trafficking right here in Hattiesburg. Take the pledge on enditmovement.com to shine a light on slavery. Raising awareness is the first part of the solution.

Once eyes are opened to the reality of human trafficking, it cannot be ignored. It is tough to grasp the idea that a young girl is being sold for sex just miles from where we live, but we have to in order to make it end.

As college students, we have access to many resources to join the fight against human trafficking. We have the numbers, technology and voices to make a difference. As Margaret Mead once said,  “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”