What is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month?

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, observed throughout January in the United States, is a time dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking, educating the public on how to recognize it, and promoting efforts to prevent and combat this global issue. The month focuses on shedding light on the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for labor or sexual purposes, often through coercion, force, or deception. It serves as a call to action for communities, governments, and organizations to unite in the fight against human trafficking and support survivors.

The month-long campaign also highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of trafficking and taking steps to help prevent it, while encouraging stronger policies and laws to protect individuals and bring traffickers to justice.

History and Origin

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month was first recognized in 2010, when President Barack Obama issued a proclamation to raise awareness and increase efforts to combat human trafficking in the United States and globally. January was chosen because it precedes National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, which is observed on January 11th. Over the years, this month has become a critical time for advocacy, education, and policy change, with the goal of eradicating human trafficking in all its forms.

The designation of January for this cause coincides with the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), passed in 2000, which has been a cornerstone in U.S. efforts to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute traffickers.

Who Celebrates National Human Trafficking Prevention Month?

• Anti-Trafficking Organizations: Groups dedicated to combating human trafficking, such as Polaris and The National Human Trafficking Hotline, observe the month by hosting educational events, training sessions, and advocacy campaigns.
• Survivors and Advocates: Survivors of human trafficking, along with advocates for victim support, use the month to share their stories, raise awareness, and inspire others to join the fight against trafficking.
• Law Enforcement Agencies: Police and government officials participate by focusing on the enforcement of anti-trafficking laws, strengthening efforts to identify and protect victims, and arresting traffickers.
• Schools and Universities: Educational institutions often observe the month by teaching students about the dangers and signs of trafficking, hosting awareness events, and engaging young people in prevention efforts.
• Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local governments promote awareness through public campaigns, social media, and policy initiatives aimed at preventing trafficking and supporting survivors.

Slogans and Themes

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month focuses on themes of awareness, protection, and action. Slogans like “End Modern Slavery” and “Break the Chains of Trafficking” highlight the urgency of addressing human trafficking and emphasize the importance of community involvement in combating the issue. The month underscores the need for vigilance, education, and compassion in the fight to stop human trafficking.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors:
  • Blue, symbolizing support for anti-trafficking efforts and the international fight against human trafficking, often associated with the Blue Campaign by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
  • Purple, representing dignity and honor for survivors, as well as the resilience of individuals who have been trafficked.
  • White, symbolizing hope and the commitment to eradicating human trafficking.
• Symbols:
  • Broken chain, symbolizing freedom from bondage and the liberation of individuals who have been trafficked.
  • Hands, representing the fight against exploitation and the support offered to trafficking survivors.
  • Candle, symbolizing hope, remembrance, and the effort to shine a light on the dark realities of human trafficking.
• Patterns:
  • Linked chain motifs, representing the ongoing fight to break the chains of human trafficking and end exploitation.
  • Wave or ripple patterns, symbolizing the far-reaching effects of awareness and advocacy in spreading knowledge about trafficking prevention.
  • Handprint designs, symbolizing action, outreach, and the personal responsibility to recognize and stop trafficking.

Most Used Hashtags

• #HumanTraffickingPreventionMonth
• #EndHumanTrafficking
• #StopTrafficking
• #BreakTheChains
• #FreedomForAll
• #SurvivorSupport
• #CombatHumanTrafficking
• #NoMoreTrafficking
• #AntiTrafficking
• #ModernSlavery

How to Celebrate National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn more about the signs of human trafficking, the risks, and how traffickers operate. Share this knowledge with friends, family, or through social media to help spread awareness.
• Attend Awareness Events: Participate in events hosted by local or national anti-trafficking organizations, such as webinars, panel discussions, or community forums focused on trafficking prevention.
• Support Anti-Trafficking Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that focus on combatting human trafficking and supporting survivors. Groups like Polaris, International Justice Mission (IJM), and Thorn work globally to end trafficking.
• Use Your Voice on Social Media: Share information, resources, and survivor stories using the month’s hashtags to raise awareness and encourage others to take action.
• Participate in National Human Trafficking Awareness Day (January 11th): Wear blue and join the online conversation to show your support for the fight against human trafficking, using the hashtags #WearBlueDay and #EndTrafficking.
• Host a Fundraiser or Drive: Support anti-trafficking efforts by organizing a fundraiser or donation drive for local shelters or services that help survivors of human trafficking.
• Advocate for Stronger Policies: Contact your local or national government representatives to support stronger anti-trafficking laws, better survivor services, and increased resources for law enforcement to combat trafficking.
• Display the Blue Campaign Symbol: Join the DHS Blue Campaign by displaying blue symbols, clothing, or ribbons to show solidarity and raise awareness about human trafficking in your community.

Why is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month Important?

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month is critical because it brings attention to one of the most pervasive human rights issues of our time: the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for labor and sexual trafficking. Raising awareness is essential for educating the public on how to recognize signs of trafficking, supporting victims, and creating a society that actively combats trafficking in all forms.

By promoting education, community involvement, and policy change, the month strengthens efforts to protect individuals at risk, hold traffickers accountable, and bring justice to survivors. It encourages everyone to play a role in ending human trafficking, ensuring that future generations live in a world free from exploitation.