To take a stand against trafficking in our community.

Continue to learn about human trafficking and be aware of the signs. Several of these include:

• Unexplained injuries or signs of mistreatment, signs of physical abuse (bruises, cuts, burns), appears malnourished
• Fearful, anxious/nervous, depressed, submissive, avoids eye contact, intimidated by presence or mention of law enforcement
• Shows lack of control over his/her own person, presence of an older, overly controlling “boyfriend,” or parent has few to no possessions, lacks identification documents, not allowed to speak for themselves or scripted responses
• Not free to come and go as they please, unpaid or paid very little for excessively long or unusual work hours, owes a large debt that is unable to pay, recruited through false promises
• Dressed inappropriately for age or weather
• Not aware of location or home address, loss of sense of time, inconsistencies in their story
• Overly tired in class or unexplained absences from school

There is not a specific profile for a trafficking victim or a trafficker. This crime can happen to and be perpetrated by all people, regardless of gender, age, race or socioeconomic status.

If you see something, say something. If you feel like something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts. Contact local law enforcement immediately. To learn more about human trafficking, see Resources or contact Tusc Against Trafficking to schedule a presentation for your next gathering or group meeting (professional organization, civil/community/church group).

Stay involved with your children. Educate them about trafficking, internet safety, and safe and healthy relationships (see Resources).

Speak up and support legislation that combats human trafficking (www.polarisproject.org/action).