Yes, Human Trafficking IS Still a Problem

Last night, my best friend and I got together to drink a little wine and watch Pretty Little Liars.  We were talking while the show downloaded, and she began telling me about one of her coworkers who had no idea that human trafficking is a problem in the world; let alone the United States.  For a minute I was taken aback.  I mean, sure, I realize that a lot of people are uneducated in regards to the full scope of sex and labor trafficking, but I had no idea that some people don't even know there's a problem.

So for anyone who may not know:  yes, human trafficking is a problem internationally.  Yes, human trafficking is a problem within the United States.  And yes, it is even a problem locally.  I work with a local non-profit organization called the Gray Haven Project and they serve survivors of human trafficking here in Virginia.  This summer, we were blessed to have a ton of fantastic and awesome interns who've helped in doing so much great work.  From revamping brochures to presenting a documentary to raise awareness with the public, the Gray Haven has really been about to touch the community.

So I want to share with you an infographic created by one of our interns which provides a brief, but comprehensive view of what trafficking in Virginia looks like.  Of all identified human trafficking victims in Virginia 87% were exploited for sex, 8% were forced into labor trafficking, and the last 5% experienced both forms of slavery.  While these statistics alone are frightening and heart breaking, these are just the reported cases.  Due to the lucrative underground business of buying and selling human beings, it's difficult to form an accurate gauge on exactly how bad it really is.

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While the media has largely sensationalized trafficking to be a crime only affecting girls in their early teens, the truth is that women, men, and children of all ages are vulnerable to these crimes.  Of victims served in central Virginia, their ages have ranged from 12 all the way to 62, and 62% of victims identified are actually adults.

I urge you to share this infographic with your friends, family, strangers, and anyone else who will listen.  This is a travesty which we need to combat tooth and nail.  This is an issue in which we should all support one another in.  Get educated, get involved, and make a difference in the life of someone who doesn't share the freedom we have.