Wayne County commissioners recognize Human Trafficking Awareness Month

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners recently recognized January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month, calling attention to a crime that continues to threaten public safety and human dignity both locally and across the nation.

Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to exploit individuals for forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation. It is widely recognized as an abuse of power and a violation of fundamental human rights.

According to national estimates, human trafficking affects nearly 25 million people worldwide. In the United States, approximately 17,000 victims are identified each year, with the U.S. ranking as the top nation of origin for trafficking victims. Ohio ranks fifth nationally in reported trafficking incidents.

“The impact of human trafficking is vast and catastrophic, directly affecting individuals, society and our own community,” Commissioner Matt Martin read from a proclamation. “Victims suffer physical, mental, emotional and psychological trauma that requires years of support from which to heal.”

Officials emphasized that awareness is a critical first step in prevention, noting that traffickers often target vulnerable populations and rely on secrecy and public misunderstanding to continue their crimes.

Often, traffickers hide in plain sight and can happen in person and online. According to the Department of Homeland Security, traffickers might use the following methods to lure victims into trafficking situations: violence, manipulation, false promises of well-paying jobs, romantic relationships, psychological or emotional vulnerability, economic hardship, lack of a social safety net, natural disasters and political instability.

Recognizing Human Trafficking Awareness Month is intended to encourage residents to learn the warning signs, support victims and report suspicious activity to appropriate authorities.

For additional information, visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign.

Dan Starcher is the communications coordinator for Wayne County.