How can I stop Human Trafficking?
How can I help stop human trafficking?
If we start here in at the City of Albuquerque, and do what we can to stop human trafficking in our state, that is the greatest step we can take. As a community, we can be aware, report, and empower victims and survivors, who may not understand that a crime is being committed against them, by educating ourselves. Our individual actions can make a difference.
Be informed, learn, and share
Learning the truth about human trafficking in Albuquerque is the most important thing you can do. Report suspicious behaviors or circumstances. Educating yourself, being aware of your surroundings, and talking about human trafficking with others so they are aware, too, are the first steps in combating this crime. Visit our resources page for ways you can learn more or get involved.
Be aware and report
If you are suspicious that you or someone you know or have seen is under the control of a trafficker, report. Even if you are unsure, or if you turn out to be mistaken, it is better to make the call because you could save someone’s life.
Put your safety and the safety of a victim first. Do not confront a suspected trafficker. Depending on the situation, you may be in a position to ask a few simple questions of the victim, or provide them the hotline number to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
Put your safety and the safety of a victim first. Do not confront a suspected trafficker. Depending on the situation, you may be in a position to ask a few simple questions of the victim, or provide them the hotline number to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
By identifying possible human trafficking and reporting it, you are doing your part to help create a community that does not tolerate human trafficking.
Be aware at work
Some professions are more likely to come across a trafficking situation. For example, a construction worker might notice other workers living in unfinished houses. A hotel owner might notice a room that has a lot of activity with multiple people coming and going. Other occupations where you might cross paths with a victim include but are not limited to healthcare workers, restaurant workers, and law enforcement.
As a professional on the front-lines of this issue, you can participate in a training on human trafficking so you are prepared to identify a situation of possible trafficking, react appropriately, and report the circumstance.
Be a conscious consumer
Visit Fair Trade USA and look for the Fair Trade mark when you purchase products, ask business owners about their supply chain to ensure their workers are treated fairly, and paid fair wages. In general, make efforts to find out if what you are buying has been ethically sourced.
Connect locally
There are many community-based programs and services that offer trainings, host events, coordinate services for victims, or need volunteers. Look for regional anti-trafficking collaborations in your area or visit the New Mexico Department of Justice Human Trafficking website to find ways to get involved in your community.
Get Trained
The City of Albuquerque offers training to all employees on Human Trafficking Awareness. These trainings apply to all city employees and we offer specialized training to law enforcement, first responders and transportation employees. Learn more about trainings on our resources and training page.