Human Trafficking Prevention Month

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time for reflection, education and action against one of the world’s most heinous crimes. As advocates for vulnerable children and families, we play a critical role in raising awareness and fighting against human trafficking. Each year, countless individuals fall victim to exploitation, and it’s our responsibility to educate ourselves and our communities about this urgent issue.

This upcoming month serves as a powerful reminder to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. By coming together as a caring community, we can inspire change, support survivors and prevent future exploitation.

How CASA Volunteers and Supporters Can Get Involved:

• Join el Governor’s Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE) initiative to empower communities of faith across Texas during their Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking in January (exact time TBD). This week offers a unique opportunity to unite with faith communities across Texas in prayer, education and collaborative action against human trafficking.
  
  Join in these daily prayer intentions that focus on critical aspects of combating trafficking:
  • Monday: Pray for the eradication of demand and support for vulnerable individuals.
  • Tuesday: Pray for awareness in recognizing the signs of trafficking.
  • Wednesday: Pray for victim-centered investigations that lead to recovery.
  • Thursday: Pray for healing for those affected.
  • Friday: Pray for those in the justice system to remain steadfast and just.
  • Saturday: Pray for the safety and healing of exploited individuals.
  • Sunday: Pray for discernment in actions to prevent trafficking.

• National Human Trafficking Awareness Day: Mark your calendar for January 11, a vital opportunity to shine a light on this important cause! Join us in wearing blue to show solidarity and raise awareness about the fight against human trafficking. Whether you’re at work, home, or out with friends, snap pictures of yourself and those around you wearing blue attire. Let’s flood our social media feeds with positivity and purpose! Share your photos using the hashtag #WearBlueDay, tag Texas CASA, and together, we can spread awareness and inspire change. Remember, every small action counts, and your support matters!

• Utilize Social Media: Beyond #WearBlueDay, share your support and insights on social media and consider using the hashtag #TXPraysToEndHT. Amplifying our voices can raise awareness and encourage others to take action.

• Educate Yourself and Others: Take the initiative to learn more about human trafficking and share this knowledge within your networks. By raising awareness, we empower ourselves and our communities to act. Below are two documentaries you could check out to increase your knowledge and understanding:
  • 1. Be the One: 52-minute training documentary from the Attorney General of Texas. The video features actual cases prosecuted in Texas.
  • 2. TBRI Animate on Human Trafficking: 3-minute animation from Texas Christian University that accurately and artfully describes the realities of child exploitation and how we can help survivors heal.

If you have questions or want to learn more, check out all the resources available on the ACT portal or reach out to Torey at casaacts@texascasa.org. Together, we can leverage the energy of Human Trafficking Awareness Month to make a significant impact. Let us stand in solidarity and commit to being champions for change in our communities.